Study Says Americans Must Eat More Whole Grains and Fiber

According to a recent study, U.S adults and children do not eat sufficient amount of whole grains and fibers.

The University of Minnesota conducted a nutritional and health survey of Americans ages two and more to measure their whole grain and dietary intake. They included the data of 9,042 people from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2009 and 2010. The researchers found that nearly 39 percent of children and 42 percent of adults did not eat whole grains. Only 3 percent of the children and 8 percent of the adults ate the recommended amount. The fiber intake was higher among only those who ate at least three or more servings of whole grains. Children and adults who ate the prescribed amount of whole grains had the highest fiber intake- on average 24.5 grams and 28 grams, respectively. The major fiber source for the participants included breakfast cereals, oatmeal, bread and popcorn.

Marla Reicks, study researcher and professor at University of Minnesota, St Paul said, "Most people do not consume whole grains in amounts that can be most beneficial, also many people, even health professionals, are confused about the relationship between whole grain and fiber, " reports Reuters Health.

Prior studies suggest regular intake of whole grains reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and various heart diseases among adults. The fiber found in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans is linked to better gut health and lower weight. The dietary guidelines from the U.S department of Agriculture and the Department of Human and Health Services also recommend three-one ounce servings of whole grains for adults and children. Fiber requirements vary according to the age. Young kids need 19 to 25 grams of fiber each day, teens and adults need anywhere between 21 to 38 grams. 

Reicks also emphasized that the habit of eating whole grain food should be encouraged from childhood. Product labeling and whole grain stamps indicate the fiber content in grams per serving that help consumers choose wholesome food by reading the ingredients, reports Reuters.

Reicks and the coauthors of this research are affiliated with General Mills, which funded the study.