It is well-known that high fiber diets cut the risk of colon cancer. New research (from France) suggests that it also reduces the risk of heart disease. Men and women with the consistently highest fiber intake had lower risks of obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Consuming fiber from a variety of sources is also important. Whole grain fiber, for example, was linked to reduced body fat (lower BMI - Body Mass Index), blood pressure and blood homocysteine – the chemical linked to blood vessel inflammation. High fruit fiber diets were linked to lower blood pressure and abdominal fat. High vegetable fiber diets were related to lower blood pressure and homocysteine levels.