Is a High Carbohydrate, High Fiber Diet Good for Reducing Fat in the Blood?

QUESTION: I'm trying desperately to get my cholesterol down by dieting. Is a
high carbohydrate, high fiber diet good for reducing fat in the blood?
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ANSWER: When it comes to diets, it seems that everyone has a different
opinion. Here's mine. A high fiber diet that is also high in carbohydrates
is an excellent way of lowering both blood lipid (fat) levels, including
cholesterol and triglycerides. High blood cholesterol readings are a risk
factor for heart disease, as are high triglyceride levels.
The traditional approach to lowering cholesterol levels is to lower the
amounts of cholesterol in the diet by cutting down or eliminating eggs, dairy
products, and red meats. The trouble with this diet is that, no matter how
closely it is followed, it usually only lowers blood cholesterol levels about
5% and has even less effect on triglyceride levels (another form of blood
fat). On the other hand, a diet low in red meats, dairy products, and eggs
that is also high in carbohydrates and fiber will lower cholesterol levels up
to 32% and lower triglycerides up to 24%.
Carbohydrates are foods like potatoes, breads, pastas, rice, and sugars.
Fiber is roughage and is either water soluble or water insoluble. Soluble
fiber is found in oats, fruit, barley, and dried beans. Insoluble fiber is
found in vegetables and wheat. Both types have a role in lowering blood lipid
levels, but soluble fiber such as oats may be more useful.
A good high carbohydrate, high fiber diet would consist of 55% to 60% of
a day's calorie intake coming from carbohydrates, 15% to 20% of calories
coming from protein, and 20% to 25% of calories coming from fat. If you need
advice about such a diet, talk to your physician. I'm sure you will obtain
another valuable opinion.