However, some of the health benefits associated with a high-fiber diet may come from other components present in these foods, not just from fiber itself. For this reason, fiber is best obtained from foods rather than supplements. Use the Nutrition Facts Label to help you choose foods lower in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol. Eat plenty of grain products, vegetables, and fruits. Choose lowfat milk products, lean meats, fish, poultry, beans, and peas to get essential nutrients without substantially increasing calorie and saturated fat intakes.
Some dietary fat is needed for good health.
Fats supply energy and essential fatty acids and promote absorption of the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Most people are aware that high levels of saturated fat and cholesterol in the diet are linked to increased blood cholesterol levels and a greater risk for heart disease. More Americans are now eating less fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol-rich foods than in the recent past and fewer people are dying from the most common form of heart disease. The way diet affects blood cholesterol varies among individuals. However, blood cholesterol does increase in most people when they eat a diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol and excessive in calories. Of these, saturated fat has the greatest effect.