Eating Fiber

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Why is fiber important?

Always eat smart, not hard.

“The future of our nation depends on our ability to produce food and fiber to sustain the world”-Phil Bredsen

Fiber is a carbohydrate that our body can’t fully digest. It can’t be broken down into simple sugars for our body to absorb, which will then form stool for our body to excrete. There is high fibrous content in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Eating fiber is essential for a healthy diet as it produces health benefits such as vitamins and nutrients while relieving certain conditions such as preventing constipation as well. Moreover, it allows the individual to feel full faster than eating other simple carbohydrates

A research from Science Daily in 2019 found out that high intake of dietary fiber and whole grains is associated with reduced risk of non-communicable diseases such as Parkinson’s, autoimmune diseases, heart diseases, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s.

Benefits of Eating Fiber

  • Relieves constipation and maintain bowel health
  • Decreases cholesterol levels
  • Slows down blood sugar absorption
  • Suitable for diet as it high fiber foods take longer to eat and make you feel satiated
  • Helps prevent non-communicative diseases

How much fiber do you need?

It is recommended for men ages 50 and below to intake 38g daily while 30g is recommended for men ages 51 and up. For women ages 50 and below, it is recommended to intake 25g daily while 21g is commended for women ages 51 and up.

FURTHER READING

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/01/190110184737.htm