What is the harm in falling short of the target range?
Heart Disease…The National Academy of Sciences suggests that we get both types of fiber: Soluble…found in whole grain cereals, breads, fruits and vegetables and Insoluble…found in oats, barley, beans, fruits and vegetables. Insoluble fiber may prevent heart attacks by reducing inflammation, reducing blood pressure and the risk of blood clots. This Soluble (sticky) fiber is broken down by digestive enzymes and bacteria in the gut and will lower LDL cholesterol. So eating the whole “fiber package” is important to do. Diabetes…There is good evidence that fiber slows the absorption of the carbohydrate in foods, which leads to a less marked increase in blood sugar and less demand for insulin. Whole grain eaters have a 30% lower risk of diabetes than people that never eat fiber. Soluble fiber (oats) keeps a lid on blood sugar as well. Once again, the whole “fiber package” is important here too. Colon Cancer…There is inconclusive evidence that high fiber foods lower the risk of colo
