Fiber is the secret to eating more, weighing less, and feeling better.
But what is fiber, anyway; is it just bran?
There are 2 types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Both are undigested, meaning
they are NOT absorbed or metabolized (as opposed to something like sugar that
IS metabolized or stored).
Instead, fiber moves through your body's gastrointestinal tract like that weirdo
at a party who bumps into things on his way out the door, dragging his friends
with him
as he goes.
With food, fiber does the bumping and dragging, and it's generally VERY healthy.
Soluble fiber forms a gel when mixed with liquid. You'll find it in such foods as:
-
Fruits such as oranges and apples
-
Vegetables such as carrots
Insoluble fiber does NOT gel and instead passes through your intestines intact.
Here's where you find it:
-
Vegetables (like green beans and dark green leafy vegetables)
-
Fruit skins and root vegetable skins
As a yoga student, here are the important things to remember.
SOLUBLE FIBER slows down digestion and regulates hunger (this is good). It also
helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. A diet high in soluble fiber
can help reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and may help you lose
weight.
INSOLUBLE FIBER (imagine eating tree bark) is the type that helps prevent
constipation, colon problems and other digestive diseases.
Cavemen ate 100-150 grams of fiber each day. Modern man eats just 15 grams. You
should aim for 30-50 grams daily, ideally with a sizeable dose for breakfast.
Stay
bendy,
Lucas
YOGABODY
NATURALS
P.S. If you're eating whole, unprocessed foods all the time, fiber is easy.
When you can't get fresh veggies, or if you're in a rush in the morning (yes, I
am suggesting you eat veggies for breakfast), I always just drink a glass of
chia lemonade.
