Could Eating More Fiber Help You Lose Weight.

Saturday, May 30th, 2009 at 8:18 pm

Most of us are familiar with the importance of fiber in our diets but could added fiber help you to achieve your weight loss goals?

According to a health survey done in France the answer could be yes. Of the six thousand people who took part in this survey those at the healthiest weight were the ones who consumed the higher amount of fiber which was between 20 -27 grams every day. These figures are closer to the daily requirement of 30-38 grams per day (Unfortunately, American adult’s diets only average 15 grams per day.)

There are some people who would argue that the link between fiber and weight loss is minimal, but in another 12 year study of women those that increased there fiber intake failed to gain weight as unlike the other women who’s intake remained the same.

Why fiber could be good for you.

Fiber may help to reduce calorie consumption as it gives a fuller feeling in the stomach for longer, thus cutting down on the amount of snacking you may do during the day. It also helps to keep the digestive track moving and not allow waste products to build up in the intestines and bowel which can lead to other health problems.

How many types of fiber are there?

There are two types of fiber soluble and non soluble. Non soluble fiber is the fiber most people are aware. This is the bulky stuff that is indigestible to the body and travels through your gut out like a broom cleaning as it goes. Where as, soluble fiber is absorbed by the body, into it enters the blood stream and organs where is does its magic.

How to get more fiber in your diet?

There are various products available that can increase the amount of fiber in your body these come in the form of shakes, pills and powders which you added to your daily diet. But, these may not be as beneficial as fiber that comes naturally from things like fruit and vegetables which some contain both soluble and non soluble fiber.

The plus side also of dietary fiber foods like whole grains, vegetables, fruits and beans is that why they may satisfy hunger pangs as their bulk fills up our stomachs they supply relatively few calories, which can also help to reduce your daily calorific amounts.

Conclusion.

While there does seem to be evidence for the benefits of eating more fiber in your diet, it shouldn’t be seen as the only solution to weight loss and obesity. Excessive calorie consumption should be your main focus as this is where weight problems are caused. But if adding more fiber to your diet helps to produce that full feeling for longer and helps you to avoid snacking it could be a use tool that helps you achieve your weight loss goals.