Whole grains, whole you!

Augusta University Health1 min readJanuary 11, 2017

We see the “whole grain” label everywhere these days. It might sound healthy, but what exactly does it mean?

You’ll often have a choice between foods made with whole grains and foods made with refined grains (some foods may have both). Refined grains have gone through a milling process where the outer layers of the seeds have been removed, changing their texture and extending shelf life. Whole grains don’t go through this process, keeping the “whole” grain — and the extra nutrients it brings — intact. Refined grains can have some nutrients added back through enrichment, but others such as fiber aren’t put back, making whole grains the better choice nutritionally.

Whole grains are a great option, because they:

  • Contain complex carbohydrates such as fiber (which promotes bowel regularity, helps to control cholesterol and helps you feel full longer).
  • Are low in fat.
  • Are linked to a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes and more.
  • Have higher levels of nutrients such as selenium (important for cognitive function, immune system health), potassium (aids with metabolism, heart health) and magnesium (helps with bone structure, heart health).
  • Are linked to a possible decreased risk of premature death. A recent study of more than 118,000 participants found that a person’s risk of death declined with each serving of whole grains added daily.*

* Source: JAMA Internal Medicine

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Based in Augusta, Georgia, Augusta University Health is a world-class health care network, offering the most comprehensive primary, specialty and subspecialty care in the region. Augusta University Health provides skilled, compassionate care to its patients, conducts leading-edge clinical research and fosters the medical education and training of tomorrow’s health care practitioners. Augusta University Health is a not-for-profit corporation that manages the clinical operations associated with Augusta University.

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