A major study at the University of Southern California found that people who ate the most fiber (especially pectin in apples and citrus) had higher good cholesterol and the least additional hardening of the arteries.
In other new research:
- High-fiber eaters had 60% less inflammation (CRP, or C-reactive protein) in arteries, a suspected villain in heart disease.
- Men who ate lots of cereal fiber cut their risk of peripheral arterial disease by 30%.
- Women who ate the most fiber over 12 years gained the least weight in a new Harvard study.
- New studies suggest fruit and vegetable fiber reduces the risk of polyps (tiny growths) that can lead to colon cancer.
How much you need daily
Adults:
At least 20 to 35 grams
Children over age 2: Child's age plus 5 grams
Copyright 2004 Jean Carper. Printed first in USA Weekend. All rights reserved
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