Whole grains are associated with fewer deaths from heart disease

According to a study of more than 110,000 people conducted by Hongyu Wu of the Harvard University School of Public Health, eating more whole grains is associated with increased longevity and lower death rates from cardiovascular disease. The death rate from cancer was not altered by whole grain consumption.

The consumption of whole grains could reduce the risk of premature death by 15 percent and promote health. The study confirmed the recommendations of the National Dietary Guidelines that people should increase the proportion of whole grains in their diet.

The study examined data from the Nurses Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. The effects of factors such as age, body composition, physical activity and overall diet were adjusted for. The study examined data and death rates over a 25-year period.

(JAMA Internal Medicine, published online January 6, 2015)