Most American consumers know that reducing their cholesterol level can help reduce the risk of heart disease, but the majority seem to need help in taking the simple steps to do so.
A survey by breakfast cereal brand Honey Nut Cheerios, entitled The Buzz on Cholesterol, shows that 72% of consumers would be more likely to purchase a food product which is proven to help lower cholesterol, but that many don't know exactly which foods to choose.
The survey revealed that while consumers know that certain foods can be good for their hearts, they generally do little about it. For example, 86% of respondents knew that some cereals can help lower cholesterol, yet only one third actually had breakfast more than three days per week.
Making lifestyle changes seemed to be the biggest barrier to lowering cholesterol levels, the survey showed. When asked what would make lowering cholesterol easier, respondent answers included everything from "a magic pill" to "having a personal chef".
There was also evidence that consumers were underestimating the risk from high cholesterol and heart diseases. Some 40% of respondents did not know their cholesterol level and 41% didn't know that blood cholesterol levels above 250 mg are considered high.
"Adding heart-healthy foods, as suggested by the American Heart Association, can have positive effects on your heart health over time," said Liz Nordlie, Honey Nut Cheerios brand manager. "But you don't have to suddenly change everything about the way you eat. In fact, many great tasting foods that can help lower your cholesterol are already in most people's cupboards, such as Honey Nut Cheerios cereal."
She said that the brand provided 0.75g of soluble fibre per one-cup serving. As part of a low-fat diet, three grams of soluble fibre per day can help reduce blood cholesterol, she added. "There's no 'magic pill' but adding foods like Honey Nut Cheerios can help you lower cholesterol without sacrificing taste."
Other foods containing soluble fibre include apples, oranges, pears, carrots, oatmeal and rye bread.