Association between Grain and Legume Consumption and the Risk of Coronary Artery Obstruction among Jordanians Based on Angiography Results

Accumulating evidence suggests that consumption of whole grains and legumes is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), whereas the risk is increased by consuming refined grains and cereals. This study aimed to investigate the association between grain and legume consumption and the risk of CVD. The study was conducted using a convenient sampling method with a total of 399 participants who underwent coronary angiography. Cases and controls were matched by age with a 1:1 ratio. Standardized and validated questionnaires were used to collect socio- demographic, health, lifestyle, and dietary data. Intake of more than 1 serving/d of white bread increased the risk of CVD significantly with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 3.06 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.37∼6.84], while consuming more than 1 serving/d of wholegrain bread reduced the risk significantly to approximately 53% (AOR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.24∼0.93). Similar trends between consuming white bread on daily basis and increased risk of CVD, and consuming wholegrain bread and reduced risk of CVD were also observed. In addition, consuming unsweetened cornflakes on a weekly basis had a protective effect against CVD (AOR: 0.15, 95% CI: 0.03∼0.96). Intake of legumes reduced the risk of CVD, although only insignificantly for all the tested legumes. The present study calls for consideration of consuming wholegrain bread prevent CVD in the Jordanian population.