720268 pa de pagesBy now I think we all know that we need to be getting more fiber in our diet. Why? Here are some of the benefits of eating high fiber foods:

  • Fiber can help lower your cholesterol and your risk of heart disease
  • Fiber helps the body maintain regular bowel function (eliminating laxatives)
  • Fiber reduces your risk of colon cancer
  • A high fiber diet helps to normalize blood sugar (especially important for diabetics)

Here are some more fiber resources:

According BellaOnline Nutrition, there are 3 things you need to look out for when you’re adding extra fiber to your diet.

  • Be sure to drink a lot of water. Since each particle of fiber absorbs water from your intestines and colon, if you don’t drink enough, you could end up constipated.
  • Add high fiber foods to your diet slowly. Adding whole grains, beans, veggies and fruits all at the same time can cause gas and bloating.
  • Adding extra fiber is not an overnight solution. It may take your body a few weeks to adjust to your new way of eating, so be patient.