Health Tip: Get Enough Fiber

(HealthDay News) -- Fiber has been shown to help lower cholesterol, and reduce risks of heart disease and diabetes.

An important part of a healthy diet, fiber can be found in many types of foods and is available in supplement form. Here are some suggestions on how to improve your fiber intake, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

• Eat at least 4.5 cups of fruits and vegetables each day. Some foods that are high in fiber are: apples, oranges, berries, pears, broccoli, carrots, beans, green peas and cauliflower.
• Eat whole grain or whole wheat bread instead of white, and substitute brown rice for white rice.
• Include bran muffins, oatmeal and multi-grain cereals in your diet. Anything whole wheat or whole grain should be a good source of fiber.
• Eat a bran cereal for breakfast -- but check the label to make sure it contains plenty of fiber.
• Try mixing wheat bran with other foods, particularly in dishes that will be baked.
• Eat cooked beans frequently.