We know that fiber offers a number of health benefits and is good for our bodies and our digestion. But, what is dietary fiber? It can be found in foods like legumes, fruits, whole grain bread, cereals and vegetables. And having a high-fiber diet does a whole lot more than help our digestive tract!
It can help to maintain stable blood sugar, lower cholesterol and aid in losing weight due to its ability to curb hunger (and perhaps, keep the occasional sweet tooth craving from coming up mid-afternoon).
Often, there is a misunderstanding of dietary fiber vs. soluble fiber. However, soluble fiber is actually a section of the larger category that is dietary fiber.
There are two common types of dietary fiber: soluble fiber and insoluble fiber, and most sources of dietary fiber are a mix of the two. Both types are good fiber, though they react in slightly different ways in our bodies.
Soluble fiber can be found in oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas and some fruits and vegetables. It is also found in psyllium, a common fiber supplement. Some types of soluble fiber may even help to lower the risk of heart disease.
Essentially, soluble fiber works to bind with water in our system, thus becoming gel-like in consistency. It helps to make you feel full as it works to soak up the water that is passing through your system. It empties your stomach at a slower rate than other foods do, helping your body to fight off hunger and allowing you to draw energy from the meal youve just eaten.
Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, is found in foods such as wheat bran, vegetables and whole grains. It helps food pass more quickly through the stomach and intestines. Unlike soluble fiber, insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water.
Because our bodies need both insoluble and soluble fiber, lets take a look at some recipes that will help you to incorporate them into your daily nutrition routine.
Luckily, at Bobs Red Mill, we love our wheat-based recipes! And were here to help you add it to your diet.
Fiber is good for many thingsour digestive tract and our bodies as a whole. Whether were integrating it by way of beans, oats or cereals, it brings along with it a wide array of health benefits.
Have any favorite ways you like to keep your fiber intake intact? Perhaps a family muffin recipe, a seasonal chili or a special loaf of whole grain bread?
Feel free to share your inspiration with us in the comments below. Were always on the lookout to add to our recipe box and share nutritious tidbits!
