Why is fiber important
Fiber is a primary staple in our diets and is important to our body’s functionality for a number of reasons. Coming from plants in both soluble and insoluble forms, fiber works to help regulate our body’s processes and maintain a clean dietary tract for food processing as a whole.
Soluble fiber is a type of fiber that can be digested by our systems and metabolized by our bodies. Working to help process many fats and other substances that may be present in our systems, soluble fiber is actually a proven source of proteins that help to break down some chemicals like cholesterol – a fatty substance the builds up on arterial walls and can cause a wide variety of heart diseases, including fatal heart attacks due to restricted blood flows.
Insoluble fiber cannot be digested and metabolized by our system, yet at the same time also plays a number of roles in helping to keep our bodies clean and free of other substances that may get caught in our digestive system. This is done by the fiber collecting on any remaining debris that might be present in our stomach or intestinal tracts and helping to flush it out of our bodies before it causes any major issues to occur.
Increased fiber intake also allows individuals to feel more energetic and full after meals thanks to the added processing capabilities fiber has. Insoluble fiber’s present in our bodies also helps prevent our digestive system from quickly triggering a hunger response shortly after eating, meaning that it is particularly effective for those who are looking to diet and lose weight.
Too much fiber too suddenly, however, can cause problems for some individuals looking to increase their regular fiber intake. On average this should be approximately 18 grams of fiber per day, though unfortunately for many people the actual average being consumed is only 12 grams per day. Increasing your daily fiber intake suddenly and drastically, however, can cause your stomach and digestive system to have difficulties processing it and may cause physical discomfort and other issues related to your digestive system initially until your body can successfully adjust.