Why your body loves fiber — and you should, too.
Getting enough fiber each day can do some amazing things for your body. You might not know it, but fiber can help:
- Aid weight loss by making you feel full for longer.
- Keep you “regular” and prevent certain digestive problems.
- Lower levels of “bad” cholesterol in your blood.
- Manage blood glucose by slowing your absorption
of carbs.- Reduce the risk of certain health conditions, including heart disease.
All that makes fiber a powerful part of your daily diet.
What is fiber?
Fiber is the part of plant-based foods that your body doesn’t digest. There are two types of fiber which offer different benefits to your body.
Soluble fiber dissolves in water. It transforms into a gel-like substance that helps your body absorb important nutrients and slows digestion — including carbs!
Insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in water. But it helps move stuff through your digestive system and adds bulk to your output — if you know what we mean.
People with diabetes need the same amount of fiber as everybody else: about 25 to 30 grams. If you get more, that’s even better. Just be sure to increase the amount you eat slowly and to drink plenty of fluids to help your digestive system adjust.
