Focal Points of Nutrition: Fiber

Dietary fiber is carbohydrates that cannot be digested. They are present in all consumable plants, including whole grains, vegetables, fruits and beans.
There are a number of different categories of fiber. Fiber from whole grains is referred to as cereal fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water. These different types of fiber are important because they react different ways in the body and can have effects on the risk of developing certain diseases.
Heart disease, diverticular disease and constipation are all diseases linked to a lack of good fiber in the diet. One should consume at least 20 grams of fiber a day and the best sources are whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes and nuts.

Some easy suggestions to add fiber to your diet are:
1. Add ground flax seed to yogurt and fruit.
2. Put seeds or nuts in your salads, soups or other appropriate foods
3. Blend fresh or frozen berries to your protein shake.
4. Snack of broccoli or sliced green apples.

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