Let's Talk About Fiber

Are you hesitant to increase fiber in your diet?

Let me give you five ways our bodies benefit from consuming fiber as part of our daily intake.

Benefits:

1. Aids in regular bowel habits, which keeps our GI tract healthy.

2. Soluble fiber reduces LDL "bad" cholesterol

3. May reduce blood pressure

4. Keeps us feeling fuller longer, helping with weight maintenance

5. Better blood sugar control

*Always remember to gradually increase fiber intake and drink plenty of water to allow for your GI tract to adjust and to avoid discomfort.

You might be saying, how can I add more to my day? It’s simple...

1 medium apple, with skin (4.4 grams)

1 cup raspberries (8 grams)

1 medium banana (3.1 grams)

1 cup cooked oatmeal (4 grams)

1 cup whole wheat spaghetti (6.3 grams)

3 cups air-popped popcorn (3.6 grams)

1 cup boiled black beans (15 grams)

1 oz or 23 almonds (3.5 grams)

1 cup boiled peas (8.8 grams)

1 cup boiled broccoli (5.1 grams)

1 cup boiled Brussels sprouts (4.1 grams)

Sources of fiber from: Mayoclinic

Photo credit: Unsplash/Jasmin Schreiber