Consumption of soluble fiber contributes to: lower HDL, lower total and LDL, lower colon cancer risk, or increased blood glucose?

• A. lower total and LDL cholesterol
• B. lowers HDL
• C. lower risk of developing colon cancer
• D. increased blood glucose concentrations

Answer: (A)

Soluble fiber lowers total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. It dissolves in the gut to form a viscous gel that binds bile acids, reducing their reabsorption. To replace the lost bile acids, the liver converts more cholesterol into bile acids, pulling LDL cholesterol out of the bloodstream and thus lowering both total and LDL cholesterol. HDL is not typically decreased by soluble fiber, and while fiber may have some association with colon cancer risk, the most consistent and direct effect of soluble fiber described in this context is the lipid-lowering action. It also helps blunt postprandial glucose rather than increase blood glucose, so that option isn’t supported.