Many people don't realize the vital and essential role fiber plays in managing heart health. Most foods have some fiber, but certain foods are rich in fiber and are especially beneficial for improving heart health.
What is fiber? While fiber is a form of carbohydrate, it does not break down into sugar molecules easily. Dietary fiber--the indigestible part of plants that we eat, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts--helps regulate digestion, weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol. The extracted fiber in supplements or fiber-enriched food is called functional fiber. There are two types - soluble and insoluble, and some types of food contain both.
According to WebMD, most experts say not to overthink getting in that fiber since a proper and balanced diet will help you get the most of it anyway. But most people don't eat a fiber-rich diet.
So, why fiber?
1. Lowers cholesterol
Soluble fiber can help reduce both "bad" LDL and overall cholesterol in general. High-fiber foods like oats, beans, etc., can also help reduce inflammation and blood pressure.
2. Controls blood sugar levels
It is recommended that people with diabetes consume fiber, which helps slow the absorption of sugar and potentially improve blood sugar levels. A diet that includes insoluble fiber may also reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
3. Helps to manage weight/aids in weight loss
High-fiber foods are typically more filling than low-fiber foods, meaning you'll be a lot less likely to overeat and gain weight. Therefore, you'll feel satisfied for much longer. Additionally, high-fiber foods usually take longer to eat and are less "energy-dense," meaning they have fewer calories for the same food volume.
4. Helps cleanse your body of toxins
Fiber binds up the cholesterol, fat, and toxins in the intestines and sweeps them out of the body. But if there isn't enough fiber in the intestines, the toxins reenter the bloodstream and are recirculated throughout the body. These toxins will eventually reach the liver to be processed again.
5. You live longer!
Yes, studies have actually shown that increasing dietary fiber intake can help you live longer. This is because it shows a reduced risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and all cancers.
So how do you get enough?
Adding functional fiber to your diet will ensure your body gets the proper amount it needs each day. Psyllium husk is one of the most treasured forms of fiber. It delivers the perfect balance of soluble and insoluble fiber. Just 7 grams per day may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Psyllium husk is the fiber found in products like Fiberwise, Benefiber, and Metamucil. Of the three, Fiberwise is the better choice. Fiberwise has 10 grams of fiber compared to the 2 grams in Benefiber and 3 grams in Metamucil.
The difference among the three goes farther than that alone, however. Fiberwise drinks are formulated with a unique, proprietary blend of soothing herbs, antioxidants, and probiotics to make it a true one-of-a-kind health supplement.
To ensure you're getting the right amount of fiber daily and other health benefits, Fiberwise is your best option. Contact me to learn more about Fiberwise and how you can get it.