Clinical Nutritionist Practice Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The primary function of soluble fiber in relation to cholesterol levels is that it dissolves in water and helps lower cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber can bind to bile acids in the intestines, which are made from cholesterol. When soluble fiber binds to these bile acids, it leads to their excretion from the body. As a result, the liver must use more cholesterol to produce new bile acids, which ultimately reduces the overall level of cholesterol in the bloodstream.

This process is beneficial for heart health because it can lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Foods rich in soluble fiber, such as oats, beans, lentils, fruits, and vegetables, can contribute to this cholesterol-lowering effect when included in a balanced diet.

In contrast, options that suggest increasing cholesterol absorption or having no effect on cholesterol levels misrepresent the well-researched impacts of soluble fiber on lipid metabolism, emphasizing the importance of soluble fiber in promoting heart health by effectively managing cholesterol levels.