viscous fibers

fit443
fit443 Posts: 93 Member
Jilbrin says that the most important type of foods to eat to keep your cholesterol levels healthy are "viscous fibers." Sounds ... gross? Don't worry, they're actually tasty. Here's a list of some yummy viscous fibers:
•Barley
•Oatmeal
•Oat bran
•Ground psyllium seeds
•Apples
•Oranges
•Prunes
• Legumes (beans, peas, lentils)
•Brussels sprouts

Viscous fibers work, Jilbrin explains, for two reasons: First, they trap some of the fat and cholesterol from your diet, sending it out of the body before it can be absorbed.
Second: "Your body uses bile acids, made from cholesterol, to break down the fat you eat, so it can be absorbed in the intestines," Jilbrin explains. "Once the bile acid is secreted in the intestine and does its work breaking down fat, most of the bile acids are reabsorbed." Are you with us so far? "But viscous fibers block some of that reabsorption, so, in order to create more bile acid, the body draws from cholesterol in the blood, thus lowering LDL (the "bad" cholesterol)."
Almonds, while not viscous fibers, are also good to eat, notes Jilbrin, because they contain a monounsaturated fat and a plant sterol, both of which lower LDL.

Of course -- it's not just what you eat. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding saturated fats and staying active, says Jilbrin, are also super important to keeping your cholesterol levels -- and your heart -- healthy.

http://www.youbeauty.com/body-fitness/10-foods-that-can-lower-your-cholesterol

Replies

  • vasolrac
    vasolrac Posts: 7
    Good to know. Will incorporate more of these viscous fibers in my diet. :smile:
  • kkzmom11
    kkzmom11 Posts: 220 Member
    so, what are friendly fibers. LOL