Your guide to fibre foods
Experts insist that we include more fibre in our diet. Do you know why?
Dietary fibre, or roughage as it is technically called, is a type of carbohydrate that is not digested by the body. So why have it in the first place? Because as fibre moves through the digestive system, it absorbs water on its way, which helps ease bowel movements. Thus, consuming high-fibre food eases or prevents constipation while lowering your risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Why eat high-fibre diet
Keeps digestive system healthy: It softens stools, easing bowel movement. In case of watery stools, fibre soaks in the water, while adding bulk to the stool. Thus, fibre ensures a clear passage of stools, which otherwise stay in the digestive system, get fermented by the intestinal bacteria and lead to constipation, colitis and haemorrhoids [piles].
Keeps cholesterol levels in check: Soluble-fibre [one that dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance] binds with the cholesterol in the blood and helps in its elimination from the body. Gradually, the blood cholesterol levels come down, and so do your chances of heart related disease.
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Afrah Karmale holds a B.H Sc degree in Foods, Nutrition and Dietetics. She is a consultant nutritionist and dietitian at a leading healthcare firm. Afrah loves to read motivational and inspiring stories. She is also passionate about food, cooking and travelling. In any situation she relies on the 3 Ps of life: Prayer, Perseverance and Patience
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