Fiber rich foods are heart healthy. There’s no debating that. However, the jury is still out on fiber-enriched foods, according to an NPR article. Fiber additives might not have the same health benefits as foods with fiber.
Food scientists believe added fiber sources such as sugarcane fiber, oat fiber and a resistant corn starch – which aren’t normally ingredients in foods such as breads – add fiber, but not always the benefits you’re looking for. The fact is that it’s not yet known whether the fiber in an apple, or other fruits, is what makes the food so healthy, or if it’s a combination of other ingredients in the fruit.
Nothing replaces an apple and other whole foods for their health-boosting elements. It is somewhat agreed, however, that Americans will reach for “junk” food and food that’s easy. In that case added fiber makes it healthier, but still shouldn’t be mistaken for healthy foods.
[via NPR: Is Adding Fiber To Food Really Good For Your Health?]