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Fiber: The Nutrient You Might Be Overlooking in Your Daily Diet

Fiber: The Nutrient You Might Be Overlooking in Your Daily Diet

Are you feeling bloated, sluggish, or just not relatively as healthy as you want to be? The solution might be more straightforward than you think: fiber. Fiber is a carbohydrate in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. While many focus on counting calories or cutting out certain foods, ensuring enough fiber in your diet can significantly impact your overall health and well-being. Let’s look closer at why fiber is so important and how you can start incorporating more of it into your diet today.

Despite the many benefits of fiber, most people need to consume more. The recommended daily fiber intake is 25-30 grams per day, but studies have shown that the average American only consumes about half that amount. Unfortunately, many people from low-income communities and marginalized populations may not have access to the education or resources they need to understand the role of fiber in their diets.

One of the primary benefits of fiber is its ability to promote digestive health. Fiber helps to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and maintain healthy bowel function. Additionally, a high-fiber diet has reduced the risk of developing gastrointestinal disorders such as hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and colon cancer. African Americans are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer than other populations. 

Fiber also plays a significant role in maintaining cardiovascular health. Increasing fiber intake can improve cardiovascular health, which is particularly important for minorities at higher risk for heart disease. A high-fiber diet can help reduce cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

Furthermore, a fiber-rich diet has been associated with improved blood sugar control in people with diabetes. Marginalized populations are at high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, preventing blood sugar spikes and helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. This can be particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes, who often struggle to manage their blood sugar levels. 

To increase your daily fiber intake, here are some recommendations: 

  • Beans and legumes: Black beans, kidney beans, lentils, and chickpeas are all excellent sources of fiber and can be used in various dishes, such as soups, stews, and salads.
  • Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, and whole wheat pasta are all high in fiber and can be used as a base for meals or added to salads.
  • Fruits: Apples, oranges, pears, berries, and mangoes are all high in fiber and make a delicious snack or dessert.
  • Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, and carrots are all rich in fiber and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes.
  • Nuts and seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and pumpkin seeds are all high in fiber and make a great addition to oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies.

In conclusion, fiber is a vital nutrient that plays an essential role in maintaining good health. You must meet your daily fiber requirements by consuming a varied and balanced diet with plenty of fiber-rich foods. Doing so can help reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases and maintain optimal health and well-being.

See Also

References

Augustus, G. J., & Ellis, N. A. (2018). Colorectal Cancer Disparity in African Americans: Risk Factors and Carcinogenic Mechanisms. The American journal of pathology, 188(2), 291–303. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajpath.2017.07.023
Felicia Hill-Briggs, Nancy E. Adler, Seth A. Berkowitz, Marshall H. Chin, Tiffany L. Gary-Webb, Ana Navas-Acien, Pamela L. Thornton, Debra Haire-Joshu; Social Determinants of Health and Diabetes: A Scientific Review. Diabetes Care 1 January 2021; 44 (1): 258–279. https://doi.org/10.2337/dci20-0053

Chikita Mann

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