Slowly digested carbs reduce inflammation in overweight adults

A diet rich in slowly digested carbohydrates can reduce the markers of inflammation in overweight and obese adults, according to new research.

Moreover, slowly digested carbohydrates can increase a hormone to regulate the metabolism of fat and sugar.

A study at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre discovered that foods such as whole grains, legumes and other high-fibre foods can significantly reduce C-reactive protein - a marker of inflammation associated with chronic disease - by approximately 22 per cent.

The diet, which prevents blood-glucose levels from spiking, also increases adiponectin by around five per cent.

This allows the body to regulate the metabolism of fat and sugar, in addition to protecting against several cancers and metabolic disorders.

Adiponectin has previously shown potential for blocking obesity-related carcinogenesis, specifically the leptin-induced migration of liver cancer cells.

Dr Marian Neuhouser, lead author on the study, commented: "Lowering inflammatory factors is important for reducing a broad range of health risks. Showing that a low-glycemic-load diet can improve health is important for the millions ... who are overweight or obese."

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