"These results prove without a doubt that rice bran can help reduce cholesterol in some individuals with moderately high cholesterol levels," said Dr. Ann Gerhardt, a UC Davis professor who conducted the study. Gerhardt said the study showed rice bran was effective in reducing the blood level of low-density lipoprotein--the so-called "bad" cholesterol that promotes the accumulation of cholesterol on artery walls--without affecting the high-density lipoprotiens, or "good" cholesterol that carries cholesterol away from the tissues and the artery walls.

Blood Lipids, namely saturated fat and cholesterol, can lead to poor health, such as heart disease, even death. Research has shown that a diet high in fiber will lower the blood lipids, and high volumes of foods rich in soluble fiber will continue to reduce saturated fat and cholesterol at all levels.

(Source: The New England Journal of Medicine)