New Study Shows Consuming Fiber Can Prolong the Lives of Heart Attack Survivors
The Impact of Dietary Fiber on Heart Attack Survivors
A recent study conducted by researchers at Harvard has found that consuming dietary fiber can have a significant impact on the lives of individuals who have suffered from a myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. The study revealed that individuals who consumed foods rich in fiber experienced a 25% reduction in their risk of heart attack and stroke compared to those who consumed lower amounts of fiber. Notably, fiber derived from cereals showed the most significant decrease in risk compared to other foods like fruits.
The Importance of Lifestyle Changes for Heart Attack Survivors
Surviving a heart attack is just the beginning of a journey towards reducing the higher mortality risk associated with such an event. Heart attack survivors often need to make strict lifestyle modifications and adhere to prescribed medications to decrease their risk of future cardiovascular events. In this context, dietary fibers have been shown to have highly favorable effects on health, including a decrease in bad cholesterol and blood pressure, a positive impact on blood sugar levels, and increased satiety, which aids in weight control.
The Study’s Methodology and Participants
The study closely examined the eating habits of 4,000 individuals who had experienced a myocardial infarction. It was conducted by the Department of Epidemiology and Nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, United States. The researchers analyzed data from men and women sourced from two large databases commonly used for studies at the institution: the Nurses' Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study.
Participants were divided into five groups based on their daily fiber consumption, and the results showed that individuals in the top fifth of fiber consumers experienced a 25% reduction in the risk of death during the nine years following the heart attack compared to those in the bottom fifth consuming the least amount of fiber.
The Impact of Fiber Consumption on Mortality
The study's findings revealed a clear correlation between higher fiber consumption and a reduction in mortality among patients who had suffered a myocardial infarction. However, it was important to note that the study did not demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship. The researchers also observed that as fiber intake increased, the mortality rate decreased. Each additional 10 grams of fiber consumed per day resulted in a 15% decrease in mortality rate.
It is recommended that men consume 38 grams of fiber per day, while women should consume 25 grams per day. The study categorized fiber-rich foods into three main groups: cereals (such as wheat), fruits, and vegetables. The researchers found that the most significant effects on mortality reduction were observed with cereals, particularly those consumed during breakfast, like whole grain bread.
Implications for Lifestyle Recommendations
This research contributes to the development of more precise recommendations regarding lifestyle changes for individuals who have had a myocardial infarction. Along with the use of medications and current methods, these recommendations can help reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events. It is well-known that heart attack survivors have a higher risk of mortality compared to individuals who have never experienced a cardiac event. Therefore, cardiologists emphasize the importance of a combination of factors, including regular exercise, stress management, reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and adopting a healthy and varied diet, in order to prevent heart diseases and improve overall health.
Source: Dietary fiber intake and mortality among survivors of myocardial infarction: a prospective cohort study. British Medical Journal (BMJ).
As an independent media outlet, Presse Santé relies on your support. Support us by following and adding us to your favorites on Google News. Thank you!
Presse Santé aims to provide health knowledge in a language accessible to all. It is important to note that the information provided in this article cannot replace the advice of a healthcare professional.
