The Fiber Train

Fiber is one of the most important substances that we do not eat enough of; lab results never tell you if you have enough, too much, or not enough. So what is it and what’s it for? Think of fiber as a ‘Transport System’, sort of like a big ol’ train that is transporting the nutrients to your body. Fiber comes in two forms; 1. soluble, which dissolves in water and is really helpful in maintaining better cholesterol and blood sugar levels and 2. insoluble, which doesn’t dissolve in water but helps the movement of material along your GI track—– which is important for those smooth movements; Woo Woo!! (see how the train analogy fits!!!)  Speaking of smooth moves; if you eat from the four main plant based food groups; veggies, fruits, legumes, and grains, you will have a varied mixture of your soluble and insoluble fiber, you will not be constipated and you’ll be one smooth mover. The key is to eat a wide variety of fruits, veggies, grains, and legumes. And the key is not to eat processed foods…most or all of the nutrients have been removed and processed foods are not the fuel you need to get that train engine moving.  Okay, what kind of benefits do I get?  Regular smooth moves, better bowel health..lower risk of Colon-rectal Cancer and no hemorrhoid!   Woo Woo, the train keeps moving….lower BP, better control of blood sugars, reduction of inflammation, lower risk of Type 2 Diabetes, aids in achieving a healthy weight and, get this….. fiber is associated with a reduced risk of dying from C-V Disease and all cancers  (let me repeat that…C-V Disease and all cancers!).   I feel better and hope you do to.

Stay healthy my friends, Vegan Doc