Whole Grain Diet May Prevent High Blood Pressure: New Study
A diet rich in whole grains may lower women's risk of developing high blood pressure, according to a recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. In a study of 30,000 women, Harvard University researchers led by Dr. Lu Wang found that those middle-aged women who ate the largest quantities of whole grains were the least likely to develop high blood pressure over the next ten years. Still, even smaller quantities made noteworthy differences in preventing the disease -- just one serving per day of foods such as rough breads, bran cereal or brown rice can help keep hypertension at bay.
Previous studies have shown the value of unrefined grains in lowering cholesterol, blood sugar and insulin levels, and in improving blood vessels, among other things. Refined grains like pastas, white bread and other foods made with white flour do not have the same protective effect as whole grain when it comes to preventing high blood pressure. The study suggests that people could improve their health by replacing the refined grain in their diets with whole grains wherever possible.
Previously on the D.C. Metro Area Medical Malpractice Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:
- A study suggesting Hispanic women are unaware of heart disease risks
- A study linking personality traits to heart disease
- The quiet prevalence of pre-diabetes