Fibre. It’s in the fruits and veggies you eat, as well as a number of other foods like oatmeal, nuts, beans, and bread. But what makes it so good for you?
Well, here are just three health benefits of fibre to consider:
Benefit #1: A Stronger Immune System
If your goal is to make it through cold and flu season without being one of the unfortunate people who winds up in bed with the sniffles, then fibre may be what keeps you up and running. Studies, such as one conducted by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the U.S., have found that an increase in fiber results in an increase of proteins that are anti-inflammatory in nature.
This means that you are in a better position to deal with infections. And if you do wind up sick, your symptoms will likely be less intense and for a shorter duration – two things that anyone who doesn’t feel good would hope for.
Benefit #2: It Is a Natural Antibiotic
Researchers in Australia have also linked fibre consumption with the ability to fight off infections as it can act as a natural antibiotic. This is extraordinary because a lot of prescription antibiotics cause negative side effects, such as diarrhea and an upset stomach.
Wouldn’t it be nicer to just eat an apple or a handful of nuts instead and avoid all of that?
Benefit #3: It Reduces Your Risk of Bowel Cancer and Heart Disease
Several studies have found that eating a high-fibre diet lowers your risk of bowel cancer. This is partly due to the fact that fibre helps get solid waste (and the bacteria and toxins it contains) out of your system faster.
Fibre consumption is also good for your heart. The reasoning includes that fibre-rich foods are generally healthier for you and they also keep your weight in check, two heart-healthy factors.
What are your favorite high-fibre foods?