Just when you thought you had heard all the diets, another pops up. But, here's one for teenagers you've probably never heard of. A high fiber diet that does not have to be low in saturated fat or cholesterol. This diet for teenagers has been found to result in a lower risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. It was part of a study conducted by Michigan State University registered dietitian Joseph Carlson. Carlson says that it's better to reduce metabolic syndrome, which is basically high blood pressure and larger waistlines. He believes it's more important to have a diet heavily laden with fiber and nutrients that are primarily "plant-based" than to be overly concerned with saturated fata and cholesterol.
But Carlson cautions that this is not a license for teenagers to eat highly saturated cholesterol laden foods. He says, "It is well established that saturated fat can raise bad cholesterol." He further states, "What this data suggest is the importance of including foods high in dietary fiber."
Carlson goes on to say, "What we found is that as fiber intake increases, the risk for metabolic syndrome decreases." He adds, "High-fiber, nutrient-dense foods are packed with heart healthy vitamins, minerals and chemicals that can positively affect many cardiovascular risk factors."Teens need to eat more fruits, vegetables. whole grains and beans. Efforts now have to go toward learning the best ways to increase fiber in the diet that will result in better cardiovascular results.