Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber (or just fiber) is found in plant foods (fruit, vegetables and whole grains) and is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
It helps support a healthy diet by:
- Keeping blood sugar levels even, by slowing digestion and absorption so that glucose (sugar) enters the bloodstream slowly and steadily.
- Helping you feel fuller faster and longer, which can help prevent overeating.
- Maintaining a healthy colon - the simple organic acids produced when fiber is broken down in the digestive process helps to nourish the lining of the colon.
The two types of fiber are soluble and insoluble:
- Insoluble fiber cannot dissolve in water, so it passes directly through the digestive system. It’s found in whole grain products and vegetables.
- Soluble fiber can dissolve in water and can also help to lower blood fats and maintain blood sugar. Primary sources are beans, fruit and oat products.
A healthy diet should contain approximately 20 to 30 grams of fiber a day, but unfortunately most of us only get about half of that amount.
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