Which dietary component primarily aids in lowering LDL cholesterol by forming a gel in the digestive tract?

💡 Explanation:

Soluble fiber, found in foods like oats and beans, dissolves in water to form a viscous gel in the digestive tract. This gel binds to cholesterol and bile acids, preventing their reabsorption and promoting their excretion, which effectively lowers circulating LDL ('bad') cholesterol levels. Insoluble fiber primarily adds bulk and promotes intestinal motility.