Study links carbohydrate quality to midlife weight gain: Refined carbs and sugary drinks pose risk

A recent study published in The BMJ sheds light on the relationship between carbohydrate consumption and weight gain, suggesting that increased consumption of carbohydrates from refined grains, starchy vegetables, and sugary drinks is associated with greater weight gain throughout midlife, while opting for carbohydrates from whole grains, fruit, and non-starchy vegetables may help mitigate weight gain.

The study, conducted by a team of US researchers, spanned 24 years and involved 136,432 men and women under the age of 65. Participants were enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study, Nurses’ Health Study II, and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study. They were free of various medical conditions at the study's outset, including diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and more.

The study revealed that boosting carbohydrate intake from whole grains led to 0.4 kg less weight gain per 100 grams per day increase, while consuming more fruit was linked to 1.6 kg less weight gain per 100 grams per day increase. Furthermore, non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and spinach were associated with 3 kg less weight gain per 100 grams per day increase.

In contrast, increasing intake of refined grains led to 0.8 kg more weight gain per 100 grams per day increase, and starchy vegetables such as peas, corn, and potatoes were linked to 2.6 kg more weight gain per 100 grams per day increase.

Reference: Association between changes in carbohydrate intake and long term weight changes: prospective cohort study, DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2022-073939

Journal: The BMJ