fibre - what is it?

Fibre is one of those things that everyone knows they ‘should’ eat, but what is it exactly?

Fibre can impact blood sugar regulation, hormones, gut bacteria, cholesterol, inflammation & cravings.

Fibre is the part of plant foods that your body doesn’t break down fully (which is why it can help you poop better).

It adds bulk to stools, feeds beneficial gut microbes to support the microbiome, slows down sugar absorption (helping energy stabilise) and can support bile and cholesterol balance.

2 types of fibre

Soluble fibre - this dissolves in water to form a gel-like texture. It can help with lowering cholesterol, supporting blood sugar stability and improves stool consistency in both constipation and diarrhoea. Foods high in soluble fibre include:

• Oats

• Chia seeds + flaxseeds (linseeds)

• Legumes eg lentils, chickpeas

• Apples + pears

• Psyllium husk

Insoluble fibre - this does not dissolve, adding bulk and can help move things along. It can support regular bowel movements, reduce constipation and encourage stool transit time. Foods high in insoluble fibre include:

• Leafy greens

• Nuts + seeds

• Vegetable skins (carrot, potato)

You also need to ensure you are drinking enough water when increasing fibre, to ensure you don’t become constipated if everything ‘dries out’.

If you need support with ensuring you have enough fibre in your diet, bloating or other digestive concerns, book an appointment here