Fiber-Should I Care?  Yes!

Many of us know fiber is good for us, but we fail to meet our daily requirement.  As I focus on the "quality" of one's calories this year, fiber is key to consider.  As I have said in earlier posts, you may keep your calories under control, but are they good calories?  Do they help you meet your fiber requirement, do they include the antioxidant powerhouses such as fruit and veggies, etc.  So why is fiber important?  Let me list a few:

• Maintains bowel health
• Lowers cholesterol
• Helps control blood sugar levels
• Aids in meeting healthy weight goals

How much do you need?

Ages 50 or younger-38 grams for men and 25 grams for women

Ages 50 and older-30 grams for men and 21 grams for women

A good source of fiber is anything around 3 grams of fiber/serving.  A high-fiber source is anything that provides 5 grams or more per serving.  So what are the best sources?  Look above!  Fruits and veggies are the most common sources-yet again another reason to include them in your daily eating regimen.  Beans such as lentils, black beans, and chickpeas are good sources as well.

My recommendation is to space your fiber intake throughout the day.  For example, if you are aiming for 25 grams then look to eat 6 grams at each meals and the remaining in your snacks.  Your tummy will appreciate this.  You also want to ensure you are consuming enough water.

In an effort to do this myself, let me provide you with my breakfast this am:

Egg and Salsa Tortilla
1egg scrambled
Mission carb balance whole wheat tortillas
salsa
Directions:  Simply make an egg fajita:)  Fiber-10 grams

Sensibalance Food BAR Information: 1 Protein and 1 Crabohydrate Food Bar

For more information about our Sensbalance Wellness program, CLICK HERE!
30 day FREE trial
Fiber tracking available plus many more features.  Revised app coming soon!!!!!!!

Healthy Regards,
Melanie Rubery MS RD LD
205-492-0404
melanie@healthylifeandnutrition.com