FIBER MAY BE one of the least glamorous nutrients, but it plays a major role in keeping the body healthy.
We hear a lot about fiber from doctors, parents, and health experts, but what exactly is it, and why does it matter so much?
“Dietary fiber is a type of carbohydrate that our bodies cannot digest. It comes in two forms: soluble and insoluble,” says Sterling Weaver, M.S., R.D. Soluble fiber helps with blood sugar control, digestion, and heart health. Insoluble fiber can help you feel full and supports colon health by encouraging regular bowel movements.
Even with all of those benefits, many Americans still do not get enough fiber. Research suggests that 97% of men in the U.S. fall short of the recommended daily intake. Adults are currently advised to eat 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories consumed each day. “For example, if you eat 1,800 calories a day, you should aim for about 25 grams of fiber,” Weaver says.
To help meet that goal, try adding a serving or two of one of these 32 high-fiber foods to each meal.
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