Adding more fiber into your diet has many health benefits. You will improve your digestion and elimination, reduce your risk for colon cancer, lower your cholesterol, and control your weight. And adding in fiber doesn't need to come in the form of a pill. There are delicious and nutritious ways to incorporate fiber into your diet with real food every day!
Make all of your grains whole grains. Toss out the white bread, and replace it with a whole wheat version that uses whole grain flours, bran, seeds and nuts in the ingredient list. Swap out white rice for brown rice or wild rice to get up to 14% of your daily value of fiber in one cup! Choose cereals that contain at least 7-10 grams of fiber per serving, but have no added sugar.
Beans and legumes are a delicious way to get more fiber. They are easy to prepare and versatile with any meal, and a ½ cup provides you with 6-7 grams of fiber.
Eating more fruits and vegetables is the most important way to add in fiber because they will also provide the added benefit of vitamins, minerals and nutrients that are needed for better health. Try high fiber fruits like raspberries, pears, and apples. Include vegetables like artichokes, brussels sprouts, peas, or broccoli, just to name a few.
A high fiber diet is vital to your health. Make a conscious effort add more to your diet with these real foods so that you can “Feel Better and Live Longer!”.
Jody Anderson, RN, CHC
Succeed Health, LLC
www.succeedhealth.com
