How To Add Fiber To Your Diet
The human body needs 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day. Fiber, or roughage, is essential for balanced digestion. It helps prevent constipation, and colon cancer. Here's how to get the most you can.
Step 1: The Produce Section
Fiber is found in any plant-like food. But some plants are better than others. Instead of potato chips which hold only 1 gram of fiber, chomp an apple, sink your teeth into a pear or pop some raisins. You'll need about 10 apples to get the daily fiber requirement, so mix it up. Fruits are particularly high in fiber, but any fruit will do.
Step 2: Veg-Out
Your mother always said eat your vegetables… she really does know everything. Veggies are a great source of fiber. Raw or cooked, you can never have enough. Peas, carrots and broccoli are some of the heavy weights. Raw veggies are best, but you can steam them to taste.
Step 3: Pills And Powder
Fiber can be hard to come by in your day to day activities. Taking fiber in pill form will give you your daily dose. Don't like pills? Buy fiber in powder form and add it to your meals or drinks. There are many powders to choose from and all will dissolve in your food or beverage.
Step 4: Aww Nuts
We all like to snack throughout the day, so make it count. A handful of almonds or peanuts will give you a fiber boost. Just don't go "nuts" with nuts. They're high in calories and fat so don't get carried away or you'll be gaining more than just fiber in your diet.
Step 5: Read The Fine Print
With a little research you can find the fiber. Read the nutrition labels and choose foods that are high in fiber or have added fiber. Avoid the white bread and choose the dark side- whole wheat.
Study the labels carefully to make sure you are getting all that you deserve.
