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How Fiber Helps Your Heart
Fiber is the part of plant foods that your body cannot digest. After eating, the food is digested and everything except the fiber is absorbed in your intestine.
Because your body makes some cholesterol, fiber actually slows down the synthesis of new cholesterol. Thus, fiber is able to lower your total cholesterol.
Vegetables and fruits are good sources of vitamins and minerals; they are low in calories and rich in dietary fiber. A diet high in soluble fiber, the kind found in fruits and vegetables, can help lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease. Vegetables and fruits also contain substances found in plants that may help prevent cardiovascular disease. Consuming enough fiber in your daily diet is important for good health. Research shows that diets rich in fiber can help lower blood pressure. For instance, whole grains are good sources of fiber and other nut r ient s . Whole grains are also a source of vitamins and minerals, such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, zinc and iron. Various nutrients found in whole grains play a role in regulating blood pressure and heart health.
Another easy way to add whole grains to your diet is ground flaxseed. Flaxseeds are small brown seeds that are high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower your total blood cholesterol. You can easily grind the seeds in a coffee grinder or food processor and add them to your diet by stirring a teaspoon of them into yogurt, applesauce or hot cereal. When combined with a healthy lifestyle a diet high in fiber will reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease
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