Viscous Soluble Fiber: Recommendations from the National Cholesterol Education Program

NCEP Discussion (excerpt): Because of the favorable effects of viscous fiber (soluble fiber from oats, fruit pectins, guar, beans and psyllium) on LDL cholesterol levels, the NCEP recommends that the therapeutic diet be enriched by foods that provide at least 5-10 grams of viscous fiber daily (Source of Soluble Fiber Chart). Even higher intakes of 10-25 grams per day can be beneficial.

NCEP Evidence Statement: 5-10 grams of viscous fiber per day reduces LDL cholesterol levels by approximately 5 percent (Strength of Evidence: A2, B1).

NCEP Recommendation: The use of dietary sources of viscous fiber (soluble fiber from certain sources) is a therapeutic option to enhance LDL lowering.