In today’s health-conscious world, it is surprising that fiber remains a mystery to most consumers. Many people are still unaware that fiber, or at least dietary fiber supplements, is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Here’s a short article to help you understand what fiber is and how it can help.
What is Fiber?
Fiber is an indigestible carbohydrate. They can be found in all edible plants, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. The fibers are classified according to their origin and water solubility. “Soluble” fiber includes oats, nuts, seeds, peas, beans, lentils, apples, pears, strawberries, and blueberries. “Insoluble” fibers that do not dissolve in water include whole grains, grains, bran, seeds, carrots, cucumbers, zucchini, celery and tomatoes.
Due to the health benefits of fiber, dietary equate fiber therapy for regularity fiber supplement caplets are becoming very popular. Fiber seems to reduce the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, diverticular disease, and constipation. However, a study by the Harvard School of Public Health found that the average American consumes only 14-15 grams of fiber. This is significantly less than the recommended daily intake of 20 to 35 grams of fiber.
Are you getting enough fiber?
With a rapidly changing lifestyle, it can be difficult to track how much fiber you need and whether you are meeting the recommended intake. A nutritious fiber supplement may be the answer to your needs. These supplements are very convenient not only to fill the “fiber gap” but also because they can be taken in pill form or mixed with food.
Should I take a fiber supplement?
Different from time to time several studies have shown that dietary fiber intake is not appropriate for everyone.
For example, fiber supplements can interfere with the absorption of certain medications. A Mayo Clinic study found that certain medications interact with dietary fiber supplements. These medications include digoxin (for congestive heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms), aspirin, carbamazepine (anticonvulsants), lithium, warfarin, and nitrofurantione (antibiotics for urinary tract infections).
Fiber supplements also lower blood sugar, so insulin users may have to adjust their dosage. It is recommended that you take fiber supplements 2-3 hours before or after taking other medications. Contact your doctor.
While dietary fiber supplements can conveniently help you meet your fiber needs, you should not limit yourself to such supplements. Include fiber from natural sources in your diet. Eat bran flakes for breakfast and a fruit snack.
If you are taking fiber supplements, you should also drink plenty of water. Dietary fiber absorbs water, so if you drink too little water and eat too much fiber, you may become constipated.