Fiber Helps Prevent Chronic Diseases

A high-fiber diet is best for healthful aging, according to a study published online in Aging. Researchers followed the diets of 1,609 healthy people and monitored incidence rates for cancer, heart disease, depression, and cognitive impairment. Those who consumed the most fiber, especially from grains and fruit, were more likely to remain disease-free later in life, compared with those who consumed the least fiber. Possible mechanisms include fiber's anti-inflammatory properties.