This week it’s fibre health benefits from Kat’s Kitchen and why eating a variety of fruit and vegetables is a good idea.
There are 2 types of fibre – insoluble and soluble.
Bran is an example of insoluble fibre which is rich in cellulose. Cellulose is not soluble in water but can bind to water which is why it’s great for the digestive system promoting regular bowel movements.
Cellulose is not fully digested in the body; about 50% is digested in the colon. This natural fermentation process is an important generator of short-chain fatty acids that nourish our intestinal cells.
Soluble fibre encompasses the vast majority of fibres in plant cell walls. There are different types of soluble fibre which support an effective digestive system, lower cholesterol levels and maintain healthy levels of glucose and insulin levels.
Fruit and vegetables are rich fibre sources; here are some reasons to include more fibre in your diet – there are so many I’ve pulled out the main ones.
Fibre health benefits
- Fibre helps you feel fuller for longer, great if you’re trying to manage your weight
- Slows down intestinal tract time which helps reduce blood sugar levels after eating
- Increased production of short-chain fatty acids which support energy production in the body and may also help prevent cancer