Going with the Grain
Whole grains not only help you lose weight, they also fight inflammation.
By Kenna Simmons
Whole grains fight inflammation. Unfortunately, we’re not getting enough whole grains. Despite recommendations to eat three or more servings a day, most Americans get less than one. That could be a big loss for people with arthritis and inflammation.
A new study shows whole grains lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood, a market of inflammation associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes – and rheumatoid arthritis. CRP levels often spike during a flare.
Researchers at Penn State had a group of 50 obese people receive all their grain servings from either whole grains or refined grains for 12 weeks. Both groups followed a weight-loss plan that included fresh fruit and vegetables, low-fait dairy, and lean meat, fish or poultry. People in both groups lost weight, but the whole-grain group also saw a 38-percent drop in CRP levels. They also lost more abdominal weight (the most dangerous kind).
To get more good grains in your diet, try eating oatmeal, brown rice, whole-grain cereal and whole-wheat crackers – all foods where the majority of the grain comes from whole grain.
How much fiber do you need? Find out in, Where is the Fiber.
Learn more on how foods fight inflammation. Read
