Summary:
Researchers have found that fibers in whole grains and fruit reduce the risk of heart disease. One type of fiber, called viscous fiber, seems especially important in lowering cholesterol levels. Viscous fibers are found in oats, apples, barley, beans, fruits and vegetables; purified sources are found in beet fiber, guar gum, karaya gum, knojac mannan, locust bean gum, pectin, psyllium seed husk, soy polysaccharide and xanthan gum. Fiber may act in several ways to reduce heart disease risk. In the gut, viscous fibers have a direct effect on cholesterol absorption as well as indirect effects through lowering blood pressure and C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation. The Portfolio diet plan, rich in viscous fibers, contain foods that lower cholesterol levels, and the combination, or “portfolio,” of foods appears to have a synergistic effect on reduction in heart disease risk.
Objectives:
The goal of this program is to recognize the role of dietary fiber in the prevention and treatment of heart disease. At the conclusion of this course, the student will be able to —
- Explain three ways in which dietary fiber may protect against coronary heart disease.
- Explain the predominant way that viscous fibers are thought to lower serum cholesterol
- List the Adequate Intake levels for dietary fiber for adult men and women
Accreditation Information
Gannett Education is a Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Accredited Provider (#GD001) with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). This course is a Level 2 course.
Gannett Education is also accredited by the Florida Council of Dietetics and Nutrition (provider # FBN 50-1489).