What is fibre and why is it so important for our bodies?
Fibre is a type of starch that our bodies simply cannot digest, this means that it ends up being excreted.
There are two main types of fibre:
Soluble fibres. This is fibre that dissolves in water.
Insoluble fibres. This is fibre that does not dissolve in water. This can add extra weight and help food travel more easily through your body's digestive system.
Fibre is important for our bodies because it helps keep a balanced diet, as well as, making sure your bowels and your digestive system remains healthy.
What foods have fibre in them?
Fibre is generally found in a broad range of different foods. Fruits and vegetables are often the most common source of fibre. These can include, avocado, apples, bananas, carrots, sweet potatoes, and broccoli all being a big source of fibre for your diet. Fibre can also be found in beans and lentils such as kidney beans and chickpeas. Nuts and legumes are other fabulous sources of fibre these include items such as almonds and peanuts. A lot of 'wholemeal' items like wholemeal pasta or bread contain a high amount of fibre and can also be more beneficial than the normal versions. A lot of fibre can also be obtained at breakfast time through oats, yogurts, cereals helping you to start the day healthy!
The daily recommended average for fibre intake is about 30 grams and we should all strive to try and eat this much to ensure healthy bodily functions.
What else is good about fibre?
Some types of fibre can actually make you lose weight, this is because it can reduce your appetite making you consume less food in general. Fibre is also excellent at reducing blood sugar after a high carbohydrate meal. There has also been evidence that eating enough fibre can help to reduce heart disease, stroke, and even type 2 diabetes.
Let's all try and consume our daily dose of fibre and keep our digestive system happy!
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