Fiber-rich diet can help lower risk of heart diseases, a latest study reveals.
Researchers at the University of Leeds analysed data from over 20 studies published between January 1, 1990, and August 6, 2013. The studies had collected information about dietary fiber intake and cardiovascular disease risk among healthy population. Data for the research came from US, Europe, Japan and Australia.
The team studied the consumption of fiber such as insoluble (whole grains, potato skins etc), soluble (legumes, nuts, oats, barley etc), cereals, fruits, vegetables and other sources.
The results showed that the risk of CVD and coronary heart disease reduced after regular intake of these fibers, reported Medical News Today.
The researchers found that a higher reduction was seen in CVD risk than CHD risk. Cereal fiber greatly reduced risk of CHD. Intake of fiber via fruits reduced the risk of CVD.
Furthermore, they found that the risk of heart disease lowers significantly with each additional intake of 7 g of fiber
"Diets high in fibre, specifically from cereal or vegetable sources are significantly associated with lower risk of CHD and CVD and reflect recommendations to increase intake," the researchers wrote in the study, which is published in the journal bmj
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 600,000 Americans die from heart disease every year.
The US Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Agriculture Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 advise people to include vegetable and fruits in their diet. A good blend of a mix of dark green, red and orange vegetables, as well as beans and peas is highly recommended.
