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Fiber-ific Thoughts

Okay, this post starts out crude. But, how can I discuss fiber in any other terms. So, just deal with it! It's for your health!

Fiber...it used to be called roughage. You can't build a healthier new you without it.

According to the Mayo Clinic web site, fiber helps you with bowel movements. It adds bulk to your stool making it easier to pass. However, it also prevents from having overly loose stools too. So, it helps to keep constipation away without making you all watery when you go. 

Look, constipation is no fun.


One of the things I hate about being human is having to deal with these bodily functions. When you can't go or have a hard time going, it's like not getting enough sleep. It becomes a huge problem and will impact everything you do. In fact, I think sleep and constipation are somewhat related. Constipation can impact your sleep cycle and your sleep cycle impacts your gastro-intestinal system. Something that is linked since infancy.

Not only does it help with bowel movements, but it also keeps your bowels healthy overall. Again, according to Mayo Clinic in the same web page, it can keep down hemorrhoids and diverticulitis-type diseases. 

There are two types of fiber: soluble and non-soluble. Soluble fiber can reduce cholesterol and help control blood sugar.* Insoluble fiber can keep away diabetes type 2.* Of course, it will not cure diabetes, but may help manage it.

When the boxes of oatmeal and other oat-based cereal such as Cheerios claim it's good for reducing cholesterol, they are referring to the soluble fiber content of oats. Back in my post showing how easy it is to microwave oatmeal, the serving size I use provides 3 grams. My last physical, including a round of blood work, showed my cholesterol is well within normal. So, there must be some truth to it.

If you go on and read more from the Mayo Clinic on how much fiber a person should get daily, it becomes a daunting task. When you realize how much fiber-rich food you have to consume, it seems impossible. I strive to get as much as I can. I have to admit, I don't quite make 30 grams a day. 

I try and get at least 3 grams of soluble fiber a day and 10 to 15 grams of non-soluble fiber. I like oats and beans, so it makes it easy for me. I don't think taking fiber supplements is a bad idea if you just can't get enough fiber-rich foods.

I can tell you if you do increase your fiber intake, drink lots of water. This is from personal experience. Fiber may make it easier to go, but if you don't drink enough water, it may actually lead to constipation. Then, you'll wonder why fiber isn't working for you. 

Hey, Metamucil has been around seemingly forever. You have to mix it with water. It's a fiber supplement that you have to take with water. Can't stand oatmeal or beans. This could be a solution for you!




*Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983

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