What Are the Best Fiber-Rich Foods for a Healthier Gut?
In a world obsessed with protein, be a fiber devotee. That’s what health experts now advise, because statistics reveal the sorry fact that 95% of people are deficient in this essential dietary food. “It’s the closest thing we have to a superfood,” says Emily Leeming, microbiome scientist, dietitian, and author of the book Genius Gut.
Why is fiber important for our health? “It’s associated with a decreased risk of many diseases, like heart disease, type II diabetes, and colorectal cancer,” Dr. Leeming explains. “It helps to slow down the release of energy into the bloodstream, keeping your blood sugar levels steady so you stay feeling full and energized for longer.” Plus, it helps sweep away gut buildup, creating a healthy environment.
In fact, the gut is where fiber has a significant impact, and when the gut is healthy, the rest of our body’s systems are more likely to be too. “You can’t digest fiber yourself, but your gut microbes can,” she explains. “Fiber feeds your gut bacteria so that they are able to make special healthy molecules called short-chain fatty acids, which help fight inflammation, look after the cells lining your gut, and keep your blood-brain barrier strong—helping to protect your brain from harmful molecules.”
Excerpted from Vogue
