Fiber Confers Cardiovascular Protection

A number of previous studies have suggested a broad variety of health benefits to consuming foods high in fiber content, Swedish researchers analyzed data involving 8,139 men and 12,535 women, ages 44 to 73 years, all of whom were enrolled in the Swedish population-based Malmo Diet and Cancer study.  Peter Wallstrom and colleagues specifically analyzed the importance of 13 different nutrient variables (aspects of fiber, fats, proteins and carbohydrates).  The team found that women who ate a diet high in fiber were at a 25% lower risk of cardiovascular disease, as compared to women who ate a low-fiber diet. In men, the effect was less pronounced; however the results confirmed a that high-fiber diet is protective from stroke, among men. The study authors conclude that: “a high fiber intake was associated with lower risk of [ischemic cardiovascular disease].”