Fibers, a Form of Carbohydrates
Dietary fiber is the indigestible parts of plant cells. Although it is a carbohydrate, fiber does not convert to glucose and thus does not raise your blood-sugar level the way carbohydrates typically do.In fact, fiber actually slows the entry of glucose into the bloodstream. This in turn reduces the blood-sugar spikes that cause insulin production and encourage the body to produce and store body fat. And by slowing down food’s transit time in the digestive tract, fiber helps you feel full longer, resulting in fewer food cravings.
Fiber also:
- binds to cholesterol in the intestine, helping rid the body of it.
- absorbs and then eliminates bacterial toxins in the intestine.
- reduces the likelihood of getting diverticulitis.
- speeds the excretion of gallstone-promoting bile.
- supports the immune system by crowding out harmful bacteria in the colon.
- bulks up the stool and make it easier to pass.
Supplementing With Fiber
Fiber-rich foods include vegetables, nuts and seeds, fruits, beans and whole unrefined grains. Drinking the recommended eight glasses or more of water daily is also essential to avoid constipation. Remember the fiber supplements and the water if you fallow a low-carbo diet, like The Atkins Diet.
Be aware that consuming too much can block mineral absorption because food simply doesn’t stay in the digestive tract long enough for your body to extract valuable nutrients. Gas, flatulence or constipation can also result. If you haven’t been eating significant amounts of fiber, increase your intake gradually to allow the intestinal tract to adjust.
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RSS Trackback URL 5. February 2007 (15:00)Filed under: Nutrition, Weight loss
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