Ancient grains like kamut are undergoing research to evaluate their potential benefits for reducing inflammation, controlling blood sugar, and managing cholesterol levels.
When it comes to health impacts, our diet has a significant influence on our overall well-being. Research suggests that what we eat contributes to more deaths than tobacco, highlighting the importance of making healthier dietary choices. A comprehensive global study on nutrition has identified key factors for improving diet quality, which include reducing salt intake, consuming more nuts, non-starchy vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
The reintroduction of ancient grains into the market has sparked interest due to their potential health benefits. Ancient grains like kamut and einkorn wheat contain higher levels of eye-protecting yellow carotenoid pigments compared to modern wheat varieties. Additionally, ancient grains possess greater antioxidant capacity, likely due to their higher polyphenol content.
Studies have compared the effects of ancient grains and modern wheat on inflammatory responses in human cells. Results indicate that ancient grains may have superior anti-inflammatory effects compared to modern wheat varieties. For example, individuals with irritable bowel syndrome experienced improvements in symptoms after consuming ancient wheat like kamut.
Furthermore, research suggests that ancient wheat varieties may offer health benefits for individuals with conditions such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetes, and heart disease. Improved liver function, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity have been observed in studies involving ancient grains.
While the findings from human studies support the notion that ancient wheat products have anti-inflammatory properties and may improve blood sugar control and cholesterol levels, further research is needed to confirm their superiority over modern wheat varieties.
It is essential to incorporate whole grains, including ancient varieties, into a balanced diet. Whole grains are known to promote gut health and support overall well-being. For more information on the benefits of whole grains and gluten, explore the related posts below.
A healthy diet should include a variety of whole grains, both ancient and modern, to ensure optimal nutrition and health benefits.
