What are the benefits of fiber?

Fiber is a type of indigestible carbohydrate that passes through our body relatively unchanged. Fiber has many benefits, such as:

• Promotes regular bowel movements

• Improves gut microbiota

• Improves cholesterol levels

• Assists in controlling blood glucose levels

• Aids in achieving a healthy weight

• Helps keep you feel full and satiated.

Despite its benefits, it’s estimated that only 5-10% of Americans consume enough fiber on a daily basis. Total daily fiber intake from food should be about 25-30 grams per day. Fiber is found in minimally processed plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds. Try these tips to add more fiber to your diet:

• Start your day by adding fiber to your breakfast with fruit, whole grain toast, oatmeal, beans, nuts and seeds.

• Choose fiber rich snacks such as fruit, nuts, seeds, whole grain crackers, or veggies and hummus.

• Keep convenient forms of vegetables on hand such as frozen vegetables or salad kits to add to meals.

• Swap refined grains for whole grains such as whole grain bread, tortillas, crackers, breakfast cereal and pasta.

For help learning how to increase fiber in your diet, book a personal nutrition consultation with me.