Fibre has always been thought of as natures broomstick for your gut, eaten to help clear you out and aid in bowel movement. But we now know that fibre plays a much bigger role in aiding in gut health, weight and fighting off inflammation. Poor gut health and function can be linked to conditions such as obesity, diabetes, IBS and a can put you at higher risk of colorectal cancer.

Last year alone, 50% of Australians reportedly experienced problems with their gut, myself included. After being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis 2yrs ago I was forced with the choice of changing the way I eat or relying on medication to do it for me, thankfully I didn’t choose the later.

Fibre is found in many foods that we eat regularly. However, an average of 83% of Australians do not consume enough fibre.

Types of fibres and their benefits

Insoluble

  • Slow absorbing, aids in keeping stool soft
  • Found in whole grains, nuts, seeds, fruit and veg
  • Helps to relieve in constipation

Soluble

  • Quick absorption
  • Found in oats, barley, legumes and citrus
  • Helps to lower cholesterol and reduce blood sugar levels

Resistant starch

  • Helps to improve immune function by stimulating production of gut hormones
  • Found in firm bananas, green peas, legumes, cold-cooked potato, rice and beans
  • Aids in healthy digestion

Along with these, fibre also:

  • enhances the feeling of fullness after eating, to help suppress hunger
  • helps to inhibit or fight against inflammation, keeping the bowel clear and healthy to help fight against colorectal cancer and chronic pain

It is important to mix up your fibre consumption to help keep your gut healthy. Instead of reaching for that packet of chips or that extra piece of chocolate (which I have been guilty of haha), aim for an apple, banana or even a carrot to keep that fibre consumption up. Your gut and your body will thank you for it!

So, if you’re looking to improve your health, looking after your gut is the best place to start, because it will look after you. After all, “we are what we eat”.

Click here to book an appointment with Taylor online or call our friendly team on 5255 5040 (OG) or 4202 0446 (L) to discuss how we can help you achieve your health goals.