When thinking about the preventable health epidemics of our generation, obesity and diabetes surely top the list. For most people, both obesity and type 2 diabetes can be managed and even eliminated by following a healthier lifestyle. And if this sounds complicated, it’s not. Adopting healthier eating habits and getting some exercise are not hard to do. The best approach is to start with one particular thing and build from there. With a little motivation and encouragement, anyone can reduce the symptoms associated with obesity and diabetes.
Here’s one simple step you can take as far as adopting healthier eating habits goes: get some fiber in your diet. Researchers at the Department of Nutrition Science, Purdue University, in Indiana, recently studied the effect of dietary fiber intake on chronic disease.
After reviewing a number of studies, the research team found data that linked significantly lower risks for obesity,diabetes, and constipation with higher dietary fiber consumption.
What is fiber exactly? It’s defined as the plant cell components that are not digestible by human digestive enzymes. Digestive fiber can only be broken down by bacteria in your large intestine. Dietary fiber is made up of cellulose, pectin, glucan, guar gum, and lignin. It also contains minerals, antioxidants and other substances that are beneficial to your health.
Dietary fiber can either be soluble or insoluble. Soluble fiber tends to have a higher calorie content than insoluble fiber, because it is broken down more easily. Good sources of soluble fiber include:
— Beans, lentils
— Vegetables
— Fruit
— Oatbran
— Psyllium seeds
Insoluble fiber is found in:
— Flaxseed
— Whole grains
— Breakfast cereals
— Vegetables
You’ll want to get both of these healing food groups incorporated into your daily diet. This shouldn’t be difficult, as there are ample food choices. At the least, you might be helping to relieve a nagging constipation problem you’ve been experiencing. At its most potent, fiber can help your body fend off major diseases.
To learn more about fiber and how it can help you, read Fiber for More Than Just Regularity