Avance de resultados sobre consumo de fibra en España y beneficios asociados a la ingesta de fibra insoluble

Background

Many studies have found an association between dietary fiber intake and a protective effect against a number of chronic diseases such as colon cancer, cardiovascular diseases, constipation and obesity, among other. However, fiber intake in western countries are low, distant from recommended values.

Methods

In this ecological study, total dietary fiber consumption, soluble and insoluble, in Spanish households has been estimated and its association with morbidity and morbidity data for selected diseases in the period 2004–2008.

Results

Average total fiber intake in Spanish households during the study period was 16.24 ± 0.15 g/day, below recommended intakes for dietary fiber. A negative correlation (p < 0.05) was observed between total fiber and insoluble fiber intake and mortality for ischaemic heart disease (myocardial infarction), cardiac failure and stroke. No significant correlation was found with soluble fiber intake.

Conclusions

Consumption of foods rich in fiber is adequate for the prevention of different chronic diseases, particularly foods rich in insoluble dietary fiber, such as cereals and pulses.