How Using Fibre Can Increase Health

A recent study published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine found that nearly 20 percent of Americans require more fiber. Among the many advantages of eating more fiber is the decreased chance of developing heart disease and diabetes. According to study author Ronette Lategan-Potgieter, a dietitian and assistant professor of nutrition at Stetson University, eating a greater amount of fibre is vital for overall health.

Lowers cholesterol
One of the many benefits fiber has is its ability to reduce cholesterol. It does this by blocking bile acids from entering the arteries. In addition, it improves the function of the bowel, and adds bulk to the food we eat. Additionally, it reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke. A Harvard study has proven that people who consume at least 25g of daily are at an increased risk of developing either. It is recommended to eat more vegetables, which are rich in fibre, along whole beans and grains.

Fiber is present in many foods and is of two types of fiber: insoluble and soluble. Soluble fiber forms a gel within the intestines and slows absorption of cholesterol and fats. It’s also a food source for beneficial gut bacteria that creates substances that are beneficial for your heart health. Thus, consuming more fibre is a good method to improve your overall health. While it might not appear appealing, studies have shown that insoluble fiber can lower cholesterol levels.

Lowers blood sugar
One method to lower your blood sugar is to increase your consumption of insoluble fibre. These fibres are found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and nuts. Because they do not break down during the digestive process, their presence in the diet helps the body process food more slowly. Through slowing the absorption process of glucose, these fibres lower blood sugar levels. Consuming more soluble fibre can aid in lowering blood sugar levels for people who suffer from diabetes.

Fiber does not cause blood sugar levels to increase unlike other carbohydrates. This stops your body from absorption of excess fat and cholesterol. The result is lower cholesterol and triglycerides. Fiber can also improve your gut health and reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. All of these advantages make fiber an essential component of a healthy diet. It also improves overall health by decreasing blood sugar levels.

Reduces the weight
Fibre is a dietary carbohydrate in plant foods and is difficult for the body to digest. Fibre isn’t easily digested by the body which can lead to side effects such as digestive discomfort and flatulence. It also prevents the rapid rise in blood insulin levels, which is linked with obesity and an increased risk of developing diabetes. By increasing fibre intake, you are likely to lower the chance of developing type 2 heart disease, diabetes, and general mortality.

Fibre also has many other benefits in addition to weight loss, such as improved health. Consuming a diet high in fibre can reduce the risk of breast cancer in women. It also helps regulate the digestive system, and can aid in weight loss. High-fibre breakfast cereals may not contain enough fluids which could lead to constipation. Additionally that a breakfast cereal with high levels of fibre might not be able to prevent constipation, which is common in adults. Despite the benefits of fibre most adults aren’t eating enough fibre. Studies have shown that diets with low levels of fiber can lead to heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.

Reduces the appearance of bloating
Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet. But how much should you eat? The National Academy of Medicine defines fiber as diet-based carbohydrates, lignans, soluble and insoluble cellulose and hemicellulose. All of them affect the health of humans. Some types of fiber are soluble and fermentable which is beneficial for your digestive system, whereas others are indigestible. Soluble fiber can be found in cereal grains, while insoluble fiber is found in a variety of vegetables and fruits cell walls.

Protein-rich diets have been linked to a greater risk of gastrointestinal bloating researchers believe a shift in the microbiome might be the culprit. In a study of people who ate high-fiber diets, substitution of high-fiber proteins with high-fiber carbohydrates reduced the incidence of black bloating. Although further research is required to determine the precise reason, this substitution could be a beneficial strategy to reduce the risk of bloating.

Reduces gas
Fibre can reduce gas and improve health when consumed. To allow the microflora of your gut to adjust, fiber is best introduced slowly. Three studies found that the bodies of participants gradually adapted to beans, and gas levels returned back to normal levels after three to four weeks. Beans should be immersed in water for a few hours prior to cooking to avoid excessive gas production. Avoid high-fiber foods like soda and coffee, as they are usually high in sugar.

A high-fibre diet delayed gas transit and decreased the number of boluses which were released through the rectum. Although some individuals might experience gaseous symptoms after eating a high-fibre diet the cause is usually due to the fermentation of gases by colonic bacteria. The recommended daily fibre intake is between 20 to 35 grams. The intake of fibre has numerous other benefits, as well.

Reduces calorie intake
A recent study has revealed that eating more fiber can help you lose weight. Participants were divided into four groups depending on their diet composition. One group consisted of people with an average BMI and a high intake of fibre and the other two groups comprised those with a low intake of fiber. In all, participants who met the Adequate Intake (AI) of fiber lost less calories than non-adherents.

High-fiber foods are full, more filling, and consume more time to eat. This leads to a lower calories per portion. They may also prolong your life. High-fiber foods like cereals have been proven to reduce the risk of developing all types of cancers and cardiovascular disease. So, even though eating more fiber may lower your calories intake, you can still enjoy delicious, nutritious food while reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes and obesity.