Most of us hear the word fiber and automatically think of unappetizing foods. Fortunately, with the advancements in food technology our generation has been freed from health foods that taste like cardboard!
There are two types of fiber. For optimal benefits, you should get enough of both in your diet.
Soluble fiber dissolves in water and has been linked with lowering levels of “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Insoluble fiber cleans out your gut and is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
A diet high in fiber has many health benefits. Besides being important for digestive health, fiber is most famous for reducing cholesterol and preventing diseases related to high cholesterol. There are also indications that a high-fiber diet improves glucose tolerance. Fiber is also beneficial for weight loss. The large, bulky molecule structure increases your sense of being full without adding any calories. It also slows the emptying of your stomach, further prolonging that sense of satisfaction so that you won’t eat as frequently.
The current daily recommendation for adults is 20 – 30 grams each day.
