There are certain foods that I feel you should always have on your grocery list. These are foods that you can pair with many other foods, make certain foods taste better, and provide an array of nutrient value. Olive Oil Nuts & Seeds Dark Chocolate Grass-fed Whey Protein Coconut oil You can keep these in your kitchen and you can use them when you need them. These are things that make very quick cooking possible […]
Why Fiber is so Important For Digestion
What is fiber and are you getting enough fiber in your diet? Fiber is a complex carbohydrate that our body does not digest. Fiber can be divided into two general groups, soluble and insoluble. The main difference between these two is that soluble fiber can absorb water while insoluble fiber does not absorb water or dissolve in water.
This means that when consuming foods rich in soluble fiber, it helps to keep our stools softer and pass more easily and foods rich in insoluble fiber helps to add bulk to our stools. Not only does fiber play a significant role in maintaining healthy digestion but also reduces the risks of cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure and lowers cholesterol levels. Fiber can also help to reduce body fat by keeping you satiated and eating less.
In the U.S., almost 50% of the average diets are comprised of refined sugars, oils, dairy, and alcohol, all of which contain no fiber. That means almost 75% of people are not getting enough fiber in their diets. Adequate fiber intakes vary based on age and sex differences but a good range for fiber intake for men is about 40-45 grams per day and for women about 30-35 grams per day.
It is important to consume both insoluble and soluble fibers each day. Some foods rich in soluble fiber are oats, nuts, seeds, berries, and prunes. Some foods rich in insoluble fiber are broccoli, brussel sprouts, apples with the skin, beans, and barley. Getting fiber from fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains is much better than consuming fiber supplements or fiber-enriched foods because they do not contain the micronutrients, phytochemicals, and water found in whole foods.
Be sure to slowly increase fiber intake to allow your body to get used to it and drink plenty of fluids to avoid uncomfortable digestive symptoms such as gas, bloating or constipation.
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