(MedicalNewsToday.com) — If you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure), you may find that a diet high in whole-grains, such as oats or wholemeal bread, is as effective as taking anti-hypertensive medications, Scottish scientists reveal in an article published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Controlling your blood pressure considerably reduces your risk of developing several diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, heart failure, aneurysm, and renal failure.
The authors explain that we should seriously consider ways of including whole-grain wheat and oat-based recipes in our Christmas holiday meals.
The researchers, from The Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, wanted to test the theory in “a well-designed clinical intervention trial” which points to growing evidence of the benefits of whole-grain foods when looking at the diets and health of various populations worldwide.
This latest study, which included over 200 volunteers, demonstrated that if you ingest three portions of whole-grain foods per day, your risk of high blood pressure is considerably reduced, which in turn lowers your chances of developing diseases linked to hypertension.
Some of the study-participants were given three servings of whole-grain foods each day, in the form of wheat, or both wheat with oats, while the rest received refined cereals and white bread (made of refined flour).
How funny is that? This ‘theory’ as been around for years. If people would eliminate dairy and meat from their Christmas dinner, that would be even better. Unfortunately someone will come and say that carbohydrates are bad for you and you need more protein (from meat).
I have been off blood pressure medication for over three years. I eat whole wheat bread and brown rice regularly. i certainly believe blood pressure can be controlled with the right diet.
which one do we follow? Different ideas keep coming up with regards to diet. Thanks all the same for the tip.
One thing I noticed is when I cut my red meat intake down to one 6oz serving per week, my blood pressure came down. It made me just feel better as well. I get most of my carbs from fruit and fresh veggies like peas, cabbage, broccoli,cauliflower, asparagus and spinach. I eat only brown rice and whole grain/whole wheat breads in small amounts.
I think its more important to do it all instead of just one thing. Balance is key. Don’t turn your nose up to organics. Pesticides can effect hormones and effect the body in other negative ways.
Yes whole grain is good for you. But the FDA needs to make some regulations on honesty in labeling the foods. Which breads or really whole grain. I can’t eat wheat but would like to find a white whole grain that really has enough whole grain. same with cereal. just because they advertise whole grain doesn’t mean there is enough whole grain ?? How is one to know especially when you are old and can’ read the fine print?