Whole grains are associated with serum concentrations of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein among premenopausal women.

High intake of whole grains is associated with low serum concentrations of high sensitivity C-reactive protein and improved reproductive health in pre-menopausal women.

High risk of adverse reproductive events and complications in pregnancy has been linked with elevated plasma levels of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in pre-menopausal women. This study evaluated the association between the consumption of whole grains and serum concentrations of hs-CRP. Researchers examined the whole grain intake and plasma concentrations of hs-CRP in 259 healthy pre-menopausal women between the ages of 18-44 years.

Researchers found low levels of hs-CRP in the blood of subjects who consumed large servings of whole grains regularly. Compared to non-consumers, a 12.3% reduction in serum concentrations of hs-CRP was found in subjects who consumed 1 or more servings of whole grains per day. The results of this study show that regular consumption of diets rich in whole grains may improve reproductive health in pre-menopausal women.