Heart disease is the leading killer of men and women, however, it’s preventable and controllable, a healthy diet being one of the best weapons in the fight against heart disease. The major cardiovascular disease risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and stress. A diet replete with nutrient-rich foods – those high in vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients, but lower in calories- can affect the modifiable risk factors of heart disease including cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes and being overweight. Scientists discovered that a diet rich in fiber, particularly from whole-grain foods increased the chance of survival among those who had suffered from heart ailments in the past, reducing their mortality risk by as much as 25 percent. Grains, legumes and vegetables are some of the excellent sources of fiber. Different types of fiber and their benefits: Soluble Fiber - Good sources of soluble fiber include beans, peas, rice b...