Preliminary results on dietary fibre intake in Spain and health benefits associated to soluble fiber intake

Background: Many studies have found an association between dietary fiber intake and a protective effect against a number of chronic diseases such as colon cancer, cardiovascular diseases, constipation and obesity, among other. However, fiber intake in western countries are low, distant from recommended values. Methods: In this ecological study, total dietary fiber consumption, soluble and insoluble, in Spanish households has been estimated and its association with morbidity and morbidity data for selected diseases in the period 2004-2008. Results: Average total fiber intake in Spanish households during the study period was 16.24 +/- 0.15 g/day, below recommended intakes for dietary fiber. A negative correlation (p < 0.05) was observed between total fiber and insoluble fiber intake and mortality for ischaemic heart disease (myocardial infarction), cardiac failure and stroke. No significant correlation was found with soluble fiber intake. Conclusions: Consumption of foods rich in fiber is adequate for the prevention of different chronic diseases, particularly foods rich in insoluble dietary fiber, such as cereals and pulses. (C) 2010 SENC. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.