Chronic inflammation has been linked to heart disease. One way to reduce that inflammation may be to incorporate more whole grains and cereal fiber into your diet.Researchers reporting in this month's issue of Diabetes Care found that women whose diets were highest in whole grains and bran had the lowest levels of inflammation as indicated by typical markers for inflammation - C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumor necrosis factor- receptor 2 (TNF-R2).
The analysis was conducted on 902 women who were part of the Nurses' Health Study. Adjustments were made for age, BMI, lifestyle, and other dietary factors.
The lead author of the study, Dr. Lu Qi, recommends that women with diabetes:
"Consume more whole grain bread and cereals and less refined grains. In addition, a meal with more low-glycemic components, such as beans, cruciferous vegetables, low-fat unsweetened plain yogurt, grapefruit, apples and tomatoes will also help."
For the study:
Whole-Grain, Bran, and Cereal Fiber Intakes and Markers of Systemic Inflammation in Diabetic Women
News Summary:
Whole Grains Good for the Diabetic Heart
