Fibre, cholesterol and bowel function

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As one of the key factors responsible for causing blockages in blood vessels, high blood cholesterol is linked to coronary artery disease (CAD) and stroke. Although cholesterol is required in our bodies for the production of hormones, excessive amounts are not desirable. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables are thought to help prevent CAD because they’re high in dietary fibres and antioxidants.

Oats are rich in soluble fibre, which has been shown to help reduce blood cholesterol. While cholesterol is needed to make hormones and breakdown the fats you eat, excessive levels can cause problems. High cholesterol is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease because it contributes to the development of clogged arteries, which can interfere with proper blood flow.

While cholesterol is mainly affected by hereditary factors as well as weight control, smoking and lack of exercise, eating oats has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels. For example, porridge contains soluble fibres that release slowly into the bloodstream to regulate levels of fat and sugars in the blood, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.

Diets rich in soluble fibre not only help lower cholesterol but also can help decrease blood pressure, improve blood vessel opening and blood flow, and improve blood glucose levels.

Another example of the impact of diet on the body is bowel function. Studies have shown that eating high-fibre rye and wheat foods improved several indicators of bowel and metabolic health, compared with low-fibre foods. Rye fibre was more effective than wheat fibre for improving overall bowel health.

This is an important message for Australians, since we often don’t eat enough fibre rich grains to obtain these health benefits. Most of us need to increase our intake of fibre significantly which in turn is believed to help reduce our risk of bowel cancer. Some of the richest sources of dietary fibre include bran, peas, beans, fruit, nuts, seeds, and wholemeal grains.