With the rise of health trends on the internet, it has become increasingly difficult for people to identify foods and nutrients that actually benefit their overall wellbeing. Fiber is considered an essential component of a healthy diet. This superfood is missing in over 90% of American diets. Fiber can decrease the risk of disease and lead to better digestive and metabolic health.
What is Fiber?
Fiber is an indigestible carbohydrate commonly found in plant-based foods. This carbohydrate aids in the digestion process. There are two different types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber is dissolvable in water and helps to slow down digestion, while insoluble fiber adds bulk to stool. Because of the benefits of fiber, a high fiber diet is often recommended to patients who suffer with digestive problems. It can also lead to helping people who need gut microbiome support because it feeds the gut bacteria which is beneficial.
The Benefits
Other than digestive support, fiber is important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Fiber has been found to benefit cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol. This can help put patients at lower risk of heart disease. It also can help in managing weight. By eating higher fiber foods, it’s easier to feel more full as your body is digesting slower. There has also been a correlation between blood sugar control and fiber intake. The slow digestion process can lead to more stable blood sugar numbers. While fiber may only seem essential to the gut, it impacts a variety of different functions in the body.
What Foods Can I Get It From & How Much Do I Need?
You can get fiber from many different sources. Sticking to whole foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains will increase your fiber intake. It’s important to prioritize these foods and decrease the amount of processed foods consumed because they tend to consist of little to no fiber. The recommended fiber intake daily for men is 38 grams. Women are recommended to consume 25 grams daily. Increasing your fresh produce intake can help you reach your fiber goals.
Talk to Your Doctor About Fiber Intake
Fiber intake along with support and advice from your doctor are stepping stones in taking care of your digestive system. Southwoods Health is here to help guide you, ensuring you are getting enough fiber in your diet as well as your overall nutrition. The Center for Digestive Health & General Surgery can guide you through improving digestive health and the Center for Comprehensive Weight Management & Bariatric Surgery is available to develop customized meal plans to improve your overall nutrition through dietary improvements. Visit our website SouthwoodsHealth.com to learn more.
