For all kinds of reasons, some nutrients get more spotlight than others. The most common reason often stems from some misunderstood study that promises to heal every issue that exists. The media gets its hands on this info (or mis-info) and then, before you know it, the entire world thinks all you have to do is take XYZ in order to cure every disease.
That said, if there were one thing that is critical at least as a foundation for healing anything, it would be fiber.
What is fiber?
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that can’t be broken down in the human digestive tract. However, it still has many useful properties to the body. Fiber fills the stomach, improves blood sugar and works like an intestinal broom to clean waste from the body.
An essential nutrient is a nutrient required for the normal functioning of the body that cannot be created in the body (and thus must come from food). Vitamins and minerals are other examples of essential nutrients.
Fiber should be considered an essential nutrient and is key for optimal health because:
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Fiber functions as food for the microbiome of the gut. A healthy microbiome is associated with many health-promoting factors such a strong immune system [1], preventing disease [2], a key factor in proper digestion [3], elimination [4], reduced inflammation in the body [5], improved brain function and mental wellness [6] and can actually produce vitamins and various nutrients. [7]
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Fiber-rich foods are filling and at a lower caloric density rate than many non-fibrous foods. In other words, you can get full on fewer calories. This has tremendous implications for achieving and maintaining an ideal body weight as a high-fiber diet is associated with a lower rate of obesity and overweight. [8]
For these 3 reasons alone, it is clear that fiber is needed to living a healthy life. And since the body cannot make its own fiber, it should without a doubt be moved to an essential nutrient status. Also, if you haven’t gathered already, another key factor about fiber is that it is ONLY FOUND IN PLANTS. That should give us some indicator about the importance of eating lots of whole food plants. You CANNOT get fiber from meat, dairy, eggs or other animal products.
How do you know if you’re getting enough fiber?
The RDA for fiber is 25-30 grams/day. This is a low standard for sure. This should be a minimum. I easily consume double this on a daily basis … and you can too if you’re eating mainly whole food plants. All fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and lentils are loaded with fiber!
One of the easiest ways to start your day with TONS of delicious fiber rich foods is by drinking a fresh green smoothie. Why wait? Get Healthy Now by increasing your fiber and overall vitality by making a change! You can do this. Put it to the test starting today!
This article was originally published at NewHopeHealth.com