In a recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition , researchers investigate the effects of various corn flours on cardiometabolic outcomes and gut microbiota (GM) changes in adults with elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. Study: Evaluating the Effects of Corn Flour Product Consumption on Cardiometabolic Outcomes and the Gut Microbiota in Adults with Elevated Cholesterol: A Randomized Crossover. Image Credit: Liami / Shutterstock.
com The health benefits of whole grains Due to the presence of dietary fiber and bioactive compounds like polyphenols, whole grain consumption is associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. To date, most research has examined the health benefits of wheat-based foods, with little research available on other grains like corn. The fiber content of corn is similar to that of wheat.
Corn is also rich in hemicellulose, cellulose, arabinoxylan, and ferulic acid. Previous studies have shown that corn, particularly whole-grain and corn bran, can reduce LDL cholesterol levels. Nevertheless, further research is needed to better understand the specific components and mechanisms through which corn and its various forms influence cardiometabolic health and GM.
About the study The present study enrolled healthy male and female participants between 18 and 70 years of age with mild-to-moderately elevated LDL cholesterol levels of 110 mg/dL or more. Individuals with LDL cholestero.