Dietetic Technician Practice Test

A patient in the hospital recovering from a heart attack wants assistance with menu selection to increase fiber. Which of the following would be most beneficial?

1. Oatmeal

2. Wheat bran

3. Carrots

4. Whole wheat bread

The correct answer is: Oatmeal

While oatmeal is indeed a source of soluble fiber which can be beneficial for heart health, the most beneficial option for increasing fiber content is wheat bran. Wheat bran is particularly high in insoluble fiber, which helps facilitate bowel movements and can aid in preventing constipation. Additionally, increasing fiber can help lower cholesterol levels and improve overall heart health, which is especially important for a patient recovering from a heart attack. Oatmeal contains a moderate amount of fiber and can contribute to heart-healthy eating patterns, but it does not match the high fiber content found in wheat bran. Carrots and whole wheat bread offer some fiber as well, but once again, they do not provide as significant an increase in fiber intake compared to wheat bran.