Fiber helps the body stay healthy and may help prevent heart disease.

Posted by Healthy By Design Nutrition on April 26, 2010  

Soluble fiber, which is found in oats, barley, beans, apples, oranges and other fruits and vegetables, may help prevent heart disease by lowering LDL, or “bad” cholesterol levels. Set a goal to eat 20 to 35 grams of fiber every day (read labels).
The best way to do this is to consume a wide variety of whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, fruits and vegetables.
Include more fiber in your eating plan by:

• adding vegetables to sauces, stews and casseroles
• adding oats to meatloaf, soup, breads and cookies
• starting your day with a bowl of high fiber cereal (at least 5 gm dietary fiber per serving) and sprinkling it with slivered almonds and berries or sliced apples
• topping salads with fresh fruit and unsalted sunflower seeds

Help prevent heart disease by eating fiber regularly. Start with a goal of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day, along with whole grains and beans.  Remember, as you increase your fiber you need to increase your water intake.