^ Eating for Optimal Health

Fiber, the Internal Cleanser

Fiber is the part of the plant that the human body cannot digest. There are two types of fibers – soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibers such as pectins, gums, and mucilages are found in apples, broccoli, and some grains. These fibers move slowly through the digestive tract. They help lower cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar levels. In contrast, insoluble fibers, which include cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose, are found in beans, flax seeds, and celery speed up the processing of food through the digestive system. This helps prevent constipation and decreases your chance of getting colon or rectal cancer.

Fiber is also great for weight control. It helps suppress your appetite by giving you a feeling of fullness. Fiber will also bind to metals & toxins and remove them from your body.

Fiber is sorely lacking from our modern diet. Our ancestors took in over 100 grams a day – 4 times the amount we take in today. Lack of fruits and vegetables and highly processed grains are factors for our low fiber consumption. This is why we have become a society nearly dependent on laxatives and hemorrhoid creams.

Adding fiber to your diet should be a gradual process. The recommended daily intake is 40 grams. Make sure you drink plenty of water to help push this fiber through your system. Over consumption of fiber may interfere with the absorption of minerals and other vital nutrients so don’t overdo it.

Most of your fiber intake should come from non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, and salad greens. Fruits such as pears, apples, and berries are excellent choices. These fruits are loaded with fiber and are low glycemic so they will not cause major fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

Ground flax seed is also an excellent way to get fiber in your diet. Eaten as a cereal or taken as a drink, flax seed produces 11 grams of top quality fiber. Its high lignin content can help balance your hormones, stabilize your blood sugar and lower cholesterol. It is also high in omega-3 fatty acids which is essential for mental and cardiovascular health. It is also high in protein and loaded with vitamins and minerals.

If you do decide to take a fiber supplement, be wary of over-the-counter products. They are usually loaded with sugar and are comprised of psyllium husk which can be harsh on the digestive system.

Recommended fiber/cleanse products:
Golden Flax 4 U (Whole Flax Seed)
Wholesome Fast Food Blend – Flora
Super Seed – Garden of Life
Ultimate Cleanse – Nature’s Secret
Aerobic Bulk Cleanse – Aerobic Life