A massive study from French researchers has found that people who get enough fiber in their diets, particularly from whole grains, may have a lower risk of developing chronic lung disease than those who eat few high-fiber foods.
Researchers studied over 111, 000 adults in the U.S between 1984 and 2000, and found the those with the highest fiber intake at the outset had a lower risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a group of lung disorders that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
During the study period, 832 people were diagnosed with COPD. Of those cases, 234 were diagnosed among the one-fifth of study participants with the lowest fiber consumption; while 107 cases were seen among the one-fifth with the highest fiber intake.
When the researchers accounted for a number of other factors, including smoking, age, weight and exercise habits, the group with the highest fiber intake, around 28 grams per day, still had a one-third lower risk of COPD than the group that consumed the least fiber.
Most healthy eating recommendations suggest that women get 25 grams of fibre per day, while men should get 38 grams per day.
For more information on ways to boost your fibre intake, check out Leslie Beck's book, Foods That Fight Disease.
Researchers studied over 111, 000 adults in the U.S between 1984 and 2000, and found the those with the highest fiber intake at the outset had a lower risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a group of lung disorders that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
During the study period, 832 people were diagnosed with COPD. Of those cases, 234 were diagnosed among the one-fifth of study participants with the lowest fiber consumption; while 107 cases were seen among the one-fifth with the highest fiber intake.
When the researchers accounted for a number of other factors, including smoking, age, weight and exercise habits, the group with the highest fiber intake, around 28 grams per day, still had a one-third lower risk of COPD than the group that consumed the least fiber.
Most healthy eating recommendations suggest that women get 25 grams of fibre per day, while men should get 38 grams per day.
For more information on ways to boost your fibre intake, check out Leslie Beck's book, Foods That Fight Disease.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.