Fibres are non-digestible carbohydrates that are found in many plant sources such fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts or seeds, Water lentils being one of them. The fibre we get from food simply passes through our body without absorbing nutrients from it. This can have many benefits especially for gut health and bowel movement. Other benefits include a decreased risk from cardiovascular disease and blood clots like stroke.
The average male requires about 38g of fibre daily, while woman require 25g. This can easily be achieved with a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts or seeds.
Types of Fibres
There are two types of fibres, soluble and insoluble fibres. Soluble fibre turns into a gel like substance when it comes into contact with water while insoluble fibres physical form remains unchanged. Soluble fibre is what reduces cholesterol and promotes cardiovascular health because these fibres bind to the LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and helps removing it from the body. Soluble fibre also reduces blood sugar levels in the body. Insoluble fibre promotes more of bowel movement which also reduces constipation.
Benefits of Fibre
Apart from lowering blood sugar and preventing diabetes, promoting gut and cardiovascular health, fibres are very important for our microbiome, which are the genetic material for bacteria and all types of microbes that live on or inside our body. In our gut lives a huge community of bacteria and yeast which are responsible for reducing inflammation, neurotransmitters, and immune cells and fibre happens to be the perfect food for them this keeps our microbiome healthy.
Tips on Getting More Fibre
- Always have a cup or two of veggies in your meal.
- Track your fibre – you can either log your calories in apps like MyFitnessPal or you can log it in your diary or computer. Additionally, you will also benefit from tracking your protein and sugar intake. I highly recommend it.
Supplements – Supplements are a great way to ensure you reach your quota of fibre when you’re out and about during a busy day. If possible, get your fibres from whole food sources. Prodex Water Lentils Plant Protein comes fully from a plant with on 30g scoop providing you with 13g of fibre, no artificial ingredients, gluten free, no artificial ingredients, high in protein and natural fats