Fibre Intake Is Associated with Cardiovascular Health in European Children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nutrition
• Cardiovascular Health
• Dietary Fiber Research

Background:

• Childhood diet significantly influences long-term health.
• Understanding the link between dietary fiber and cardiovascular markers in children is crucial for preventive strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the association between childhood dietary fiber intake and cardiovascular health markers.
• To investigate the impact of different fiber sources on cardiometabolic risk in children.

Main Methods:

• Longitudinal observational study analyzing 3-day dietary records from ages 3 to 8 years in 400 children.
• Cardiovascular health markers including waist circumference, blood pressure, and biochemical analyses were assessed at age 8.
• A cardiometabolic risk score was calculated using z-scores of measured parameters.

Main Results:

• Children with consistently low fiber intake showed higher homeostasis model for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and cardiometabolic risk scores.
• Higher intake of soluble fiber from fruits and vegetables at age 8 correlated with lower HOMA-IR and cardiometabolic risk scores.
• Specific fiber sources showed differential associations: potato fiber linked to higher SBP, while nut and pulse fiber linked to lower SBP.

Conclusions:

• A childhood diet abundant in fiber from fruits, vegetables, pulses, and nuts promotes a healthier cardiovascular profile.
• These benefits are observed independently of the child's body weight.
• Early dietary interventions focusing on fiber-rich foods can support cardiovascular health in children.