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Why Eat Fibre?

Why Eat Fibre ?

 

Fibre is the indigestible parts of plants that pass through our digestive tracts relatively unchanged. We hear time and time again how good it is for us and how we should be eating more – but let’s remind ourselves why.

 

Dietary fibre is best known for its beneficial and regulatory effect on digestion – we all know its one of the most effective ways of relieving constipation. But fibre also helps keep our digestive system clean by acting like a sponge that soaks up toxins and a broom that sweeps the walls of the intestines. An equally important function of fibre is to provide nourishment for the friendly bacteria that live in our gut. This helps regulate our immune system and prevent inflammatory disorders.

 

Eating fibre-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables (with the skin on), nuts, seeds, beans and lentils, also slows down the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream and helps improve our blood sugar levels. This reduces the risk of diabetes, helps lower cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of heart disease.

 

Fibre is also vital for managing weight. Foods that contain plenty of fibre tend to require more chewing time, giving the body more time to register it’s no longer hungry – so you’re less likely to overeat. Fibre-rich foods also keep us feeling fuller, longer and that reduces food cravings.

 

These are all good reasons to make sure we obtain adequate amounts on a daily basis. But many of us aren’t eating the 25 grams that are currently recommended. Problems stemming from a diet low in fibre include irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, heart disease and some cancers.

 

Increasing your daily fibre intake is an easy way to improve your health. The Clever KItchen shows you some simple and smart ways with their recipes.

A perfect recipe that includes tons of fibre is our Clever Vegan Chili