What is the significance of soluble fiber in a diet according to health claims?

Soluble fiber plays a significant role in heart health, and one of its key benefits is its ability to decrease the risk of coronary heart disease. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract. This characteristic helps to lower blood cholesterol levels by binding to bile acids, which contain cholesterol, thus aiding in their excretion from the body. Lowering cholesterol has a direct impact on reducing the risk of heart disease, as high cholesterol levels can lead to the buildup of plaques in the arteries, contributing to coronary artery disease.

In addition to this, soluble fiber can also aid in blood sugar regulation, which contributes to overall heart health. By helping to control glucose levels and prevent spikes in insulin, it can further lower the risk of heart disease, making it a vital component of a heart-healthy diet. This relationship between soluble fiber and heart health aligns with many health claims associated with dietary fiber intake.