Fiber
By Dawson D.
What is it?
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. While most carbohydrates are broken down into sugar molecules, fiber cannot be broken down and instead passes through undigested.
-Fiber helps regulate the body's use of sugars, helping to keep hunger and blood sugar in check.
-Children and adults need 20 to 30 grams of Fiber a day
Types of Fiber:
Soluble Fiber- dissolves in water, lowers glucose and blood cholesterol
Sources: oatmeal, nuts, beans, lentils, apples and blueberries
Insoluble Fiber- doesn't dissolve in water, helps food move through the digestive system
Sources: wheat, whole wheat bread, whole grain couscous, brown rice, legumes, carrots cucumbers and tomatoes
Ways to increase you fiber intake:
-Eat whole fruits instead of fruit juices
-Replace white rice, bread, and pasta with brown rice and whole grain products
-Eat cereals with whole grain as the first ingredient
-Snack on raw vegetables instead of junk foods
-Use beans instead of meat for chili and soups