How Using Fibre Can Increase Health

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

Reduces cholesterol
One of the many advantages that fibre has is its ability to reduce cholesterol. It helps prevent bile acids entering the arteries. In addition, it improves bowel function, adding bulk to the food we consume. In addition, it lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke. A recent Harvard study revealed that those who consume more than 25 grams of fiber per day have a reduced risk of both conditions. It is recommended to eat more vegetables, which are abundant in fibre, along whole beans and grains.

Fibre is found in foods and has two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber forms a gel within the intestine and delays absorption of fats and cholesterol. It is also a source of food for gut bacteria that are ‘friendly which produce compounds that are beneficial for heart health. Thus, consuming more fibre is a great way to improve your overall health. Although it might not look appealing, studies have shown that insoluble fibre can reduce cholesterol.

Lower blood sugar
One method to lower your blood glucose is to increase your intake of soluble fibre. These fibres are found in many legumes, fruits and vegetables. Since they don’t break down during the digestion process, their presence in the diet helps the body process food more slowly. The fibres can reduce the intake of glucose, and can lower blood sugar levels. Consuming more soluble fibre may help lower blood sugar levels for those who suffer from diabetes.

Fiber doesn’t cause blood sugar to spike unlike other carbohydrates. This prevents your body’s absorption of excess fat and cholesterol. The result is lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels. Fiber can also improve your gut health and reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. All of these benefits make dietary fiber a crucial component of an wholesome diet. It can also improve your overall health by lowering blood sugar levels.

Lower weight
Fibre is a type of carbohydrate that is found in plant foods. It is difficult for the body to absorb. Because of this, it is not easily absorbed by the body and could result in a variety of adverse reactions, including stomach discomfort and a rise in flatulence. It also assists in preventing an abrupt rise in blood sugar levels, which can result in obesity and an increased chance of developing diabetes. By increasing the amount of fibre you consume it is likely to lower the chance of developing type 2 heart disease, diabetes and general mortality.

Fibre also has many other benefits such as weight loss and improved health. For women, high-fiber diets may lower the risk of developing breast cancer. It aids in weight loss and digestion. Breakfast cereals with high-fibre may not have enough fluid which can lead to constipation. Constipation is a common problem for adults and could be caused by breakfast cereals with high levels of fibre. Many adults do not eat enough fiber, despite the many benefits. Research has proven that low-fiber diets can cause stroke, heart disease and certain kinds of cancer.

Reduces bloating
Fiber is a key part of a healthy diet, but how much should you be consuming? The National Academy of Medicine defines fiber to include diet-based carbohydrates, lignans, soluble and insoluble cellulose and hemicellulose. All of them can affect the health of humans. Some fibers are soluble and can be fermented, which is good for the digestive system. Other fibers are not digestible. Soluble fiber is found in cereal grains whereas insoluble fiber is found in many fruits and vegetables’ cell walls.

Protein-rich diets can lead to increased gastrointestinal bloating, researchers believe that a shift in the microbiome might be the culprit. A study of people who ate high-fiber diets revealed that the presence of black bloating was decreased by substituting high-fiber protein with high fiber carbohydrates. While further research is needed to determine the exact mechanismbehind this, this substitution may be a beneficial approach to reduce the likelihood of bloating.

Reduces gas
If consumed, fibre can lower gas levels and improve health. To allow the microflora of your gut to adjust, fibre is best introduced slowly. Three studies revealed that participants’ bodies gradually adjusted to beans and gas levels returned back to normal within three to four weeks. Beans should be kept in water for a few days before cooking to prevent excessive gas production. Avoid high-fiber foods like coffee and soda since they are usually high in sugar.

High-fibre diets delay gas flow and decrease the number of boluses passed through the rectum. Some people may suffer from gaseous symptoms resulting from high-fibre food items. However this is usually due to colonic bacteria fermenting gases. The recommended daily intake of fibre is between 20 to 35 grams. In addition, fibre intake has other benefits.

Reduces calorie intake
A recent study has revealed that eating more fibre can help you lose weight. Participants were divided into four groups according to their diet composition. One group comprised people with average BMI and high fiber intake while the two other groups included those with lower intakes of fiber. In all, participants who were able to meet the Adequate Intake (AI) of fiber lost less calories than those who did not.

High-fiber foods are full and more filling. They also require more time to eat. This results in a less calories per serving. Furthermore, they may even prolong your life. Foods high in fiber, such as cereals are associated with an lowered risk of dying from all types of cancers and cardiovascular disease. So, even though eating more fiber may lower your calories intake however, you can still take pleasure in delicious, nutritious foods while reducing the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.