Fiber is considered a carbohydrate, but it doesn't get metabolized by the digestive system as a simple or complex carbohydrate does. Unlike simple carbohydrates which are basically sugars, and are metabolized rapidly causing hunger spikes, or slow digesting complex carbs, fiber isn't broken down by the body. In fact, sugar molecules bind to fiber slowing the metabolism and even helps flush some of the glucose from the system!
Besides being filling, helping to prevent over eating, fiber offers a host of health benefits including lowering cholesterol, improving digestion, reducing diabetes and improving heart health! Continuing with the benefits, it also reduces inflammation of the intestines (Diverticulitis), and helps maintain steady glucose levels in the blood.
Adding Fiber To Your Diet
Fiber is found in plant based foods such as fruits and veggies. It is also found in whole grain foods. There are two types of fiber, soluble and insoluble. Soluble Fiber can be absorbed by water found in the body where insoluble cannot.
Most adults need between 20-35 grams of fiber daily. It is my believe we should get our nutrients from REAL FOOD and avoid supplements which denature the natural compounds our body can naturally process. Many supplements contain man-made chemical additives which can actually cause inflammation and be harmful to the body.
FOOD RICH IN FIBER INCLUDE;
Fruits
Vegetables
Whole-grain breads
Wheat and Rice Based Cereals
Pastas
Brown rice
Dried beans
Oatmeal
Popcorn
Finding Ways To Add Fiber To Your Diet
It's easy to add more fiber to your diet daily. Try adding oatmeal or whole grain cereal topped with fresh fruit for breakfast. Veggie salads for lunch are a great way to increase fiber. Snack on fruits and veggies with the skins remaining on to increase not only fiber but nutrient content as well! Adding bulgur, barley, quinoa or couscous as side dishes for dinner is an excellent way increase fiber in your day as well. Whole wheat pasta and brown rice tend to contain more fiber. Add some steamed veggies to pasta and rice and you have a great filling, nutritious and fiber loaded meal. Adding a Sweet potato as a side to any lunch or dinner will help get some low glycemic carbs while increasing fiber.
Adding fiber to your nutrient intake daily will not only increase your weight loss success but increase your health as well. Add fiber to your diet slowly however! Adding too much fiber to soon may cause abdominal pain, gas and bloating. I know... It sounds like one of those commercial's side effects for drugs advertised on TV! Ha Ha... But, being aware of your fiber intake will greatly increase not only your results when trying to shed body fat but will increase your overall health as well!