Fibre is a generic term that applies to carbohydrates that your body cannot digest. It is one of the essential ingredients of food that is often overlooked by the general public. However, they could be used up by the “good” bacteria known as the gut microbiome. This is crucial since the gut microbiome is an essential part of your health. It’s necessary to keep in mind that after a fibrous meal, have plenty of water to keep you hydrated.
There are mainly two types of fibres yon can obtain from the diet. They can be either soluble or insoluble fibres. Insoluble fibres are not digested in our bodies. Hence, they form the bulk material in our stool and are secreted out as stool which helps in regular bowel movement. On the other hand, soluble fibres can dissolve in water and form a gel-like consistency that makes you feel fuller and reduces the craving for more food.
Have you ever wondered why is fibre important for a healthy diet? Here are the eight most crucial roles of dietary fibres. Knowing these points will help you motivate to have more fibrous food and maintain good health. As noted above, make sure you keep your body hydrated when on a fibrous diet.
Reduce craving for excess food – Reduce Weight Loss
Fibre helps in weight loss because they slow down the digestion process. Hence, you get the feeling of fullness and reduces the urge for another meal.
Regulates blood sugar level and Type 2 Diabetes Risk
This slowing down of digestion also helps regulate carbohydrate absorption by your body and regulate your blood sugar level.
Helps in regular bowel movement
It also helps in bowel movements since some fibres are not digestible. Hence, there are secreted as stool which enables you to keep regular bowel movement. This also helps to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
Reduces cholesterol level
Fibre also helps to reduce cholesterol absorption. Fibre lowers cholesterol by binding to the cholesterol and preventing it from entering the bloodstream. Hence, cholesterol passes out of your body in the faeces. However, it is reported that soluble fibres are better for reducing cholesterol levels.
Reduce calorie intake
Fruits rich in fibres are known to be lower in calories.
Rejuvenate your gut microbiome
The soluble fibres in the gut can be consumed (fermented) by the gut bacteria. This keeps the good gut bacteria (microbiome) in good shape. It is important because the gut microbiome produces short-chain fatty acids that lower systematic inflammation and weight loss.
Reduce constipation
Fibres are known to soften the stool, which helps to reduce constipation.
Live longer
Given such benefits, research has also shown that people that consume higher fibers tend to live longer by up to 17%!
