Benefits of Fiber

Why is fiber so important? Why do you see it highlighted on so many food labels?  

It is because of the countless benefits of fiber in all of its various forms.

Dietary fiber comes primarily from the parts of plant based foods your body can not absorb.  This includes fruits, vegetables, grain, nuts and seeds!  Unlike protein, fats and simple carbohydrates, fiber is not digested by your body, instead it passes through your intestinal track and excretes via bowel movements.

There are 2 main categories of fiber, soluble and insoluble.  Soluble fibers dissolve in water and insoluble fibers can not dissolve in water.  

Soluble fiber forms a gel-like substance that can help lower blood cholesterol and glucose/sugar.  Soluble fiber can be found in foods like oats, Cheerios, peas, beans, lentils, apples, carrots, avocado, brussels sprouts, broccoli, barley, sweet potatoes, many whole grains and more. 

Insoluble fiber forms a more solid substance in your intestinal tract and helps to push material through your bowels making it beneficial for those who suffer from constipation or irregular stools. Sources of insoluble fiber include nuts, cauliflower, green beans, potatoes, beans.

Some foods have both a mix of soluble fiber and insoluble fiber!  To make sure you are getting enough of each type make sure you eat a variety of foods.

Fiber is great for overall health, weight loss and so much more!  Below is a list of benefits of fiber!

• Helps maintain a healthy bowel
• Lowers cholesterol
• Lower blood sugar, decrease risk of diabetes
• Normalize bowel movements
• Helps to keep you full, aiding in weight loss or maintenance 
• Helps you live a longer by decreasing the risk of health discrepancies