This June when the DYI Network launched Against the Grain with Clint Harp and his wife Kelly, we wondered why a guy who made his career based on his love of reclaimed wooden furniture—and all its glorious grain—would opt for such a grain-bashing name. Why not Go with the Grain, or No Grain, No Gain? Those titles sum up his wood-working artistry. And, might we add, they also describe our love of 100 percent whole grain!

We’ve long advocated eating only 100 percent whole grain. It’s packed with nutrients and helps strengthen your gut biome, which in turn makes your immune system stronger, helps you control your LDL cholesterol, weight and glucose levels, is great for your skin and heart and helps you attain a younger RealAge.

And now researchers have found if you eat three servings (90g or a tad more than 3 ounces) of whole grains a day, you reduce your risk for coronary heart disease 19 percent, cardiovascular disease 22 percent and cancer 15 percent . . . plus, you reduce your risk of diabetes, infections and respiratory illnesses.

We hope you opt for the high end of current guidelines that suggest three (90g) to six (180g) servings a day for women and four (120g) to seven (210g) for men. (Psst! 24g a day makes your RealAge at least 1.1 years younger.)

A serving of whole grain equals: 1/2 cup of cooked brown rice, 100 percent whole wheat pasta, or oatmeal; 1 slice 100 percent whole grain bread.

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