When you think about gut health and keeping things moving, you might think of those yogurt commercials Jamie Lee Curtis starred in when you were younger. I actually saw one of those yogurts in a store the other day, and it made me chuckle to think back on it.
However, probiotics in yogurt aren’t the only things that promote a healthy, regular gut. Fiber is the real star of the show!
There’s a chance that one of the only things you know about fiber is that it aids in digestion — and that’s true! But, fiber isn’t just for those of us with digestive issues.
Fiber does a lot of heavy lifting for your body by:
- balancing hormones
- regulating blood sugar
- optimizing gut health
- helping you recover more quickly from stress
But, what is fiber?
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate found in plant foods—like fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds—that your body can’t fully digest. And, that’s actually a good thing.
Instead of being broken down and absorbed like sugar or starch, fiber moves through your digestive system. It moves out waste, feeds your good gut bacteria, and helps your body stay balanced from the inside out.
While most carbs break down into sugar for energy, fiber doesn’t. Instead, it passes through the digestive tract, offering huge benefits for your blood sugar, gut, hormones, heart and more.
Do I actually need to prioritize fiber?
Yes! The benefits we talked about earlier aren’t just “benefits.” They’re necessary for improving and regulating your overall health.
It’s recommended that most adults get 25–30 grams of fiber daily, but most women are getting less than 15 grams each day.
So, where do I get more fiber?
Like we talked about earlier, fiber is a carbohydrate found in plant foods. You can add more fiber into your diet through:
- fruits like raspberries, apples and avocados
- vegetables like cabbage, leafy greens and peas
- pantry staples like beans, lentils and chia seeds
Most fiber-filled foods can be easily added into any meal.
Eating yogurt for breakfast? Add in flax seeds and berries.
Having a rice bowl for lunch? Mix in black beans and leafy greens.
Testing a new soup recipe for dinner? Stir in some cabbage, beans or peas.
Taking care of yourself and understanding your health don’t have to be complicated. Making small, simple changes — like adding in extra fiber each week — has big, positive effects on your health over time.
Navigating healthy nutrition choices can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Graceful Balance Wellness, our team of dietitians and nutrition counselors is committed to helping women like you find a path to health that works with you and your lifestyle. You’ll get personalized care and plans to help you make healthy and sustainable changes. Schedule a free discovery call with one of our experts today, and start your path to a life of simple health—with caring guidance along the way.
Sources: The Simplified Fiber Guide by Megan Taylor
