Issue Date: June 7, 2009
Eat more whole grains
Boost your fiber intake to help your heart.
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It's time to double up on your whole grains: A recent study shows that fiber-rich foods can give you a longer lease on life.
University of Minnesota researchers followed approximately 14,000 Caucasian and African-American adults ages 45 to 64 over a 13-year period and found that those who consumed just one extra serving of whole grains -- such as cereal, oatmeal or whole-wheat bread -- each day reduced their chance of heart failure by 7%.
The average American consumes only 12 grams of fiber a day, even though 25 to 38 grams are needed to help maintain a healthy weight, lower cholesterol and avoid diabetes as well as heart disease.
Ready to up your fiber intake? Start slowly, adding one serving of a whole grain, like a slice of whole-wheat bread, and a piece of fresh fruit to your daily diet.
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