The Dietary Fiber FAQ

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Everything You Need to Know About the Dietary Necessity

So, you know that fiber makes you go number two, but does it have any other benefits? Of course it does! Read on to learn why you need more of this dietary necessity.

What is Dietary Fiber?

Dietary fibers are the indigestible portion of plant foods that move food through the digestive system, absorbing water and easing defecation.

-Wikipedia

Why Do I Need Fiber? 

It's the best hunger killer.

Dietary fiber absorbs water as it passes through your digestive system, so it takes up more space in your stomach and intestines, making you feel more full. This is great for weight management.

As for the gastric benefits, to keep this lens as non-graphic as possible, I will say that fiber absorbs water, thus easing the passing of feces during a bowel movement. Dehydrated feces can cause all kinds of uncomfortable problems to your backside.

How Much Do I Need and When? 

Here's a secret for beating afternoon hunger.

Most adults should aim for 30 grams of fiber per day. Unfortunately, most only get between 12-18. To see where you should get your fiber from, keep reading and I will show you lots of great sources.

A secret for beating mid-day hunger is to load up on fiber at breakfast. More fiber in the morning keeps you feeling fuller during the day.

Fiber Information and Recipes 

For more on the YOU health series, check out my lens on it here.

You: On A Diet: The Owner's Manual for Waist Management

Amazon Price: $14.62 (as of 11/11/2009)Buy Now

The YOU series is great! This book explains lots about fiber and has many fiber-rich recipes.

What Are Good Sources of Fiber? 

Whole Grains: Oatmeal, whole grain breads, rye, bran.

Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, potatoes, zucchini.

Legumes: peas, soybeans, beans, lentils.

Dietary Fiber Source of the Week:

Oroweat whole grain 100% whole wheat bread has 3 grams of fiber per slice. That means that a sandwich will give you 6 grams, or a fifth of your daily allotment of dietary fiber.

This is the only kind of bread my wife and I buy and we love it. Oroweat does make a double fiber loaf, but we found it to be a bit too tough for our tastes.

Any Negative Aspects of Fiber? 

Gassy pants.

Too much fiber at once can cause gassiness. So make sure to spread your dietary fiber intake throughout the day.

(Special thanks to YOU On a Diet and Wikipedia for facts listed.)

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by cactusdo

Back to my USA home after two years as a volunteer in Belgium and France, found a lovely wife and we're figuring out life together. (more)

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