Researchers find link between white bread, diseases

SYDNEY, Australia Researchers at the University of Sydney, Australia, have determined that white breads and other foods with a high glycemic index (GI), lead to a higher risk of certain health problems.

According to a recent study, high blood glucose led to a higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and was linked to other internal problems, like gallstones and certain types of cancer.

Blood glucose levels increase quickly and stay higher for longer periods in people who regularly consume foods with high GIs, such as carbohydrates, which the body breaks down faster than other foods, the researchers say.

Researchers recommended whole- or multi-grain breads, fruit, and other low GI foods, to maintain a healthy diet.

Recently, the number of whole grain products being launched has doubled each year—from 64 in 2003, to 140 in 2004, to 346 in 2005, to 620 in 2006, researchers say.