Dietary Fiber and Heart Health
Dietary fiber supports more than digestive regularity. When combined with a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, it can also play an important role in heart health by helping lower LDL cholesterol, often called “bad” cholesterol, and supporting a heart-healthy eating pattern.
What is dietary fiber?
Dietary fiber is a non-digestible carbohydrate found naturally in plant foods and in certain added fiber ingredients. Because fiber is not broken down like other carbohydrates, it can work in the GI tract with beneficial effects on human health, and here some can affect processes related to cholesterol absorption and heart health.
How dietary fiber helps support heart health
- Helps lower LDL cholesterol: Certain soluble fibers can interfere with the absorption of dietary fat and cholesterol, helping lower LDL cholesterol levels in the blood.
- Supports heart health: By helping manage cholesterol levels, dietary fiber can be part of an eating pattern that helps support cardiovascular health.
- May help lower blood pressure: Increasing dietary fiber intake can be part of an overall heart-healthy eating pattern that supports healthy blood pressure.
- Supports key heart health markers: Dietary fiber can help support cholesterol management and healthy blood pressure as part of an overall heart-conscious routine.
How to identify dietary fiber for heart health
- Look for grams of dietary fiber: The Nutrition Facts label lists dietary fiber per serving, making it easier to compare choices.
- Consider fibers associated with cholesterol support: Certain fibers, such as beta-glucan and psyllium, are commonly associated with cholesterol management.
- Review the ingredient list: Added fiber ingredients such as beta-glucan, psyllium, pectin, inulin, cellulose, resistant starch, soluble corn fiber, polydextrose, and resistant maltodextrin can contribute dietary fiber.
- Make dietary fiber intake consistent: Regular intake is important because cholesterol and heart health benefits are supported over time.
Fiber does more than aid digestion. It can help with cholesterol management and contribute to overall heart health.