In the past few weeks I’ve received a few questions about the use of fiber products. When you ask, I listen and then I write! Knowing about the health benefits of fiber is important.
Most nutrition-conscious people today are aware of the importance of fiber in their daily diet. They may, however, not fully understand WHY it’s important. They may not know that there are many types of fiber found in various foods which perform
important, though different functions in their digestive process.
The health benefits from fiber come from three sources: fruits, vegetables and grains.
Fiber keeps your entire gastrointestinal system functioning smoothly. If your diet is low in fiber, which applies to many many people, the quickest and easiest way to correct this deficiency is to add fiber.
Many people think of fiber as a laxative. Constipation does mean that your gastrointestinal system is functioning improperly, but it’s better to think of fiber as an internal regulator, rather than a laxative.
Fiber will help you maintain a normal transit time for food to pass through your body and make elimination regular and easy. You don’t want an internal rotor-rooter
experience from a laxative, you want to allow your body to function the way it was intended to function!
Fiber From Grains
Fibers from grain are classified as crude fibers. Bran is probably the best known from this group.
Psyllium seeds, another crude fiber, have twice the bulking capacity of bran without
bran’s tendency to rob you of essential nutrients as it passes through your system.
Psyllium, pectin and guar represent the best balance of fiber from grain, fruit and vegetable sources. If you use a fiber product look for this combination because it will not interfere with absorption once it’s in your stomach.
As for fiber filled fruits and vegetables, my prescription is EASY.
Eat them often, eat them in great quantities, wake up tomorrow with a smile on your face from your early morning elimination and do it all over again each and every day.
And of course, exercise helps keep that smile on your face too, but you already knew that, didn’t you??
Enjoy a fiber filled week and gain all the health benefits from fiber!
If you feel stuck and need additional support to adopt a new healthy habit or routine, consider working with me. We can partner up in setting goals, drawing on your skills and strengths, and implementing strategies to help you find your way to lasting healthy success.
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For over 15 years, Shelli has been a freelance writer and wellness habit coach on Joyinmovement. She writes about brain fitness, creating a healthy lifestyle, traveling the world, and making positive habits stick. Stop procrastinating! Take action, join her free newsletter.
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