A U.S. study finds wheat and black beans help with longevity
Recent issues of the U.S. Archives of Internal Medicine published a large-scale, latest study by the U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI), which claims that eating more foods rich in dietary fiber can help with bowel movements, reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, infectious diseases and certain cancers, and increase the chances of a longer life.
By analyzing data from 388,000 people, U.S. researchers found that dietary fiber intake is inversely proportional to the mortality rate from infectious and respiratory diseases. Compared to those with low intake, people who consumed 25-30 grams of fiber per day had a 22% lower overall mortality rate. By gender, men and women with high fiber intake had their chances of death reduced by 23% and 19%, respectively.
The study also examined the types of fiber consumed and found that whole wheat fiber and bean fiber are most beneficial for the health of both men and women, although beans are more beneficial for women than men. Eating vegetables and fruits is also beneficial, but the effect on extending life is not significant.
Therefore, the American Heart Association recommends that everyone should consume 25 grams of dietary fiber per day. It is especially recommended to eat more grains such as wheat, barley, black beans, etc.