New Harvard Study: Eat More Fiber? That Depends…
by KATHERINE TALLMADGE
The Harvard study found “dietary fiber may reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular, infectious and respiratory diseases,” published in February 14's Archives of Internal Medicine. But, this may not mean what you THINK it means!
Should you be looking for foods in your supermarket which exclaim in bright letters “HIGH FIBER?” Probably NOT! Let me explain:
The term “HIGH FIBER DIET” when describing an eating pattern which benefits your health, is more accurately described as “A DIET HIGH IN FOODS WHICH ARE NATURALLY FIBER-RICH.”
What’s the difference? This is a critical, literally life-saving distinction… so read on!
People who eat a diet high in foods which are NATURALLY fiber-rich are the ones who receive the health benefits from a high fiber diet.
That is because foods which are naturally fiber rich are also naturally jam-packed full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other plant compounds (called “phytonutrients”) which have known health-enhancing benefits. This is the combination of nutrients – including fiber – which makes people healthy… NOT-THE-FIBER-ALONE!
How can you tell the difference and incorporate these findings into your and your family’s everyday routine?