How Using Fibre Can Increase Health

According to a recent study in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine more than 20 percent of Americans require more fiber in their diets. One of the many benefits of eating more fibre is the decreased risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. According to study author Ronette Lategan-Potgieter a dietitian and assistant professor of nutrition at Stetson University, eating more fiber is essential for overall health.

Lowers cholesterol
One of the many benefits fiber has is its ability reduce cholesterol. It does this by stopping bile acids from getting into the arteries. Additionally, it improves the function of the bowel, and adds bulk to the food we eat. Additionally, fiber lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke. A recent Harvard study revealed that those who consume 25 grams or more of fibre daily are less likely to suffer from both of these conditions. The key is to include more vegetables to your diet, since they contain fibre, along with whole grains and beans.

Fibre is present in many foods. There are two types of fibre both soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber forms a gel in the intestine , which slows the absorption of cholesterol and fats. It is also a food source for beneficial gut bacteria which produce substances that are beneficial for your heart health. Consuming more fibre can improve your overall health. Although insoluble fibre can appear unappetizing, studies show that it may lower cholesterol.

Lower blood sugar
Increase your intake of soluble fibre to lower blood sugar levels. These fibres can be found in a variety of fruits, vegetables , and legumes. They are not broken down during digestion, and therefore they help the body process food slower. In addition, by slowing the absorption of glucose, these fibres are able to lower blood sugar levels. Consuming more soluble fibre can aid in lowering blood sugar levels for people who suffer from diabetes.

Like other carbohydrates like sugar, fiber does not trigger an increase in blood sugar. This prevents your body’s absorption of cholesterol and fats. The result is lower cholesterol and triglycerides. In addition, fiber helps to improve your gut health and lower your risk of colon cancer. All of these benefits make dietary fiber an integral part of an healthy diet. It can also improve your overall health by lowering blood sugar levels.

Lowers the weight
Fibre is a dietary carbohydrate in plant foods and is difficult for the body to digest. Fibre is not readily taken in by the body, which can result in side negative effects, such as stomach pain and flatulence. It also helps in preventing an increase in blood sugar levels, which can cause obesity and an increased likelihood of developing diabetes. By increasing the amount of fibre you consume, you are likely to reduce the chance of developing type 2 heart disease, diabetes and overall mortality.

Fibre also has other benefits including a decreased weight and better health. Consuming a diet high in fibre can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in women. It also helps regulate the digestive system and encourages weight loss. High-fibre breakfast cereals may not have enough fluid and can cause constipation. Constipation is a common problem in adults and may be caused by breakfast cereals with high levels of fibre. Despite the benefits of fiber however, many adults aren’t getting enough fibre. Studies have shown that low-fiber diets can cause stroke, heart disease, and certain kinds of cancer.

Reduces the appearance of bloating
Fiber is an essential component of an optimum diet however, what amount should you consume? The National Academy of Medicine defines fiber to include the dietary carbohydrates, lignans, soluble and insoluble cellulose and hemicellulose. All of them can affect human health. Certain kinds of fiber are fermentable and soluble which is good for the digestive system, whereas others are not digestible. Soluble fiber is present in cereal grains, whereas insoluble fiber is found in the cell walls of many fruits and vegetables.

Researchers believe that a change in the microbiome may be the cause of the increase in gastrointestinal bloating after high-protein diets have been associated with the issue. A study of people who consumed high-fiber diets showed that the presence of black bloating decreased by substituting high-fiber protein by high fiber carbohydrates. While further research is required to determine the exact mechanism, this substitution may be a good strategy for reducing the bloating.

Reduces gas
Fibre can decrease gas and improve health when eaten. To allow the microflora of your gut to adjust, it is recommended that fibre should be introduced gradually. In three studies, the bodies of participants slowly adjusted to beans and gas levels returned to normal levels after three or four weeks. Beans should be left to soak for at least two hours prior to being cooked to decrease gas production. Avoid high-fiber foods like coffee and soda, as they are usually high in sugar.

High-fibre diets can delay gas transit and reduce the number of boluses passed from the rectum. Some people might feel gaseous after eating high-fibre food items. However, this is often due to colonic bacterial fermentation of gases. The recommended daily fibre intake is between 20 to 35 grams. Fibre intake has many other benefits, as well.

Reduces calorie intake
A recent study has revealed that eating more fiber can aid in losing weight. Participants were divided into four groups according to their diet composition. One group comprised people who consumed a lot of fiber and an average BMI. The two other groups comprised those who had low fiber intake. All in all, those who achieved the Adequate Intake (AI) of fibre lost fewer calories than those who did not.

High-fiber foods are more filling and take longer to consume which results in lower calories per serving. Furthermore, they may even prolong life. Foods high in fiber, such as cereals, have been linked to a lower risk of dying from all types of cancers and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, while eating more fiber can reduce the calories you consume however, you can still have delicious, nutritious meals while reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.