Fiber is known to improve digestion as it helps prevent or relieve constipation. According to Mayo Clinic, It is commonly found in oats, fruits, and vegetables that can easily be added to your daily meals. Aside from helping you avoid indigestion, fiber also comes with other health benefits like lowering your risk of heart disease and maintaining a healthy weight.
What is fiber?
Did you know that fiber is a structural part of plant food? Cleveland Clinic explains that fiber is found in fruits, vegetables, and grains that humans cannot digest or break down. It is a carbohydrate that passes through your body undigested—thus giving you that feeling of fullness while keeping your blood sugar and hunger pangs at bay.
Read: Can Good Digestion Lead to Weight Loss?
Why should you eat more fiber?
A high-fiber diet can provide many benefits to your body, which include:
- Softer stool that lessen chances of getting constipated
- Risk reduction of developing hemorrhoids
- Promote blood sugar control and lower cholesterol
- Lowers blood pressure and chances of suffering from cardiovascular disease
- Reduces inflammation in arthritis and depression
Some people may react differently to fiber and may need more of it in their daily diet. Always consult a health professional first before making any drastic changes to your diet.
Read: 10 Quick Tips for Healthy Digestion
Where can you get more fiber?
Start your wellness journey and infuse more fiber-rich ingredients to your everyday meals. A range of healthy options are available that can meet your budget and dietary preferences.
- Oatmeal
- Beans
- Nuts
- Apples
- Whole wheat
- Carrots
- Brown rice
- Tomatoes
- Berries
- Wholegrain breakfast cereals
Always remember to consult your doctor regarding supplements most especially if you have existing health conditions and are taking maintenance medications. Always do your research first on the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for each nutrient to ensure that you are getting just the right amount that you need for your age and health status. Vitamin supplementation is best supported by a healthy diet and an active lifestyle.
General disclaimer
Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
Sources:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/14400-improving-your-health-with-fiber
- https://www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org/education/why_fiber_is_so_good_for_you/
- https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/fiber/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/22-high-fiber-foods
- https://www.orlandohealth.com/content-hub/does-more-fiber-lead-to-less-inflammation
