Fiber – What Is It?

We’ve all heard that we need to have plenty of fiber in our diets every day. But what’s the best way to get it and what exactly do high-fiber foods do?

The recommended amount of daily fiber intake is between 25 and 40 grams, and even though many of us are eating a healthy diet, we still fall short, sometimes only getting 15 grams per day or even less.

Fiber is a part of the structure of plants that helps to build plant molecules. It contains zero calories since it can’t be digested by humans, and even though fiber is found in carbohydrate foods like veggies, fruites, nuts and whole grains, they don’t contribute any carbs to our diets.

So, you’re asking, if it can’t absorb it, why is it important for our health?

Great question.

It’s important because as it passes through our digestive system, it takes with it toxins, waste, fat and cholesterol particles, removing them from our bodies, which contributes to heart health, makes us feel full and helps with digestion and detoxification.

There are two (2) different kinds of fiber, each of which have a very important role:

1) Soluble fiber slows down our digestion by attracting water and forming a gel-like substance and promotes weight loss because it slows the process of food emptying from your stomach and makes you feel full for longer after eating.

2) Insoluble fiber tends to speed up digestion by adding bulk to your stools (basically helping to relieve constipation)

Great soluble fiber foods are oats, oat bran, nuts, flaxseeds, beans, lentils, peas, berries and carrots.
Great insoluble fiber foods are brown rice, barley, bulgur, broccoli, cucumbers, carrots, green beans and zucchini.

Another great food that is high in fiber are avocados. On my #WTMKlive show last week, I made a delicious chocolate pudding using avocado. If you’d like the recipe, let me know 😊
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