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What is fiber?
Fiber is plant matter that is not easily digestible in the gut.
Examples of fiber include...
- Pectin (complex
sugar found in fruit known to reduce lead poisoning)
- Cellulose (the
material that keeps plant stems rigid)
- Lignins (another
substance that contributes to a plant's skeleton or form)
- Waxes
- Brans
- Germs
- Husks
- Natural gum
Why is fiber good for you?
Fiber helps prevent cancer.
Green leafy veggies, high fiber cereal, whole grain bread, and apples
(rich in pectin) are among the fiber rich foods that can reduce
your chance of cancer.
How do I receive enough fiber?
Gradually increase fiber intake to 20 to 35
grams daily Ð Consuming more than this
can inhibit the absorption of healthy minerals and you need these
minerals while your growing through your teen years.
Soluble fiber is better for you at this time
in your life. "Soluble fiber" such as
that found in oats, dried beans and fruit interferes with mineral
absorption less than "insoluble fiber" found in whole wheat. Once
you are fully grown, feel free to consume all sorts of fiber to
promote health and prevent disease.
Vary your source of fiber.
To get the benefits of fiber without sacrificing mineral absorption,
get your fiber by eating a variety of different fiber rich foods
including cereal, fruits and vegetables as opposed to limiting your
diet to just one source of fiber.
Sources of Fiber
Here's a list of fiber-rich foods in order
of most fiber per serving to least...
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