Refined grains are grains that have been processed where typically the germ and the bran have been removed. This process removes nearly 80% of the nutrition from the grain and what is left is, basically, starch. Conversely, a whole grain has not had the germ or bran removed and therefore provides important nutrients and fiber to a diet. Regular daily consumption of whole grains is associated with longer life, where refined grains have been linked with a higher risk of disease.