Fibre is something we hear about quite often, but do we really know why it is so important? It plays a big part in keeping our digestive system healthy and helping our stomach work as it should.
Fibre is found in lots of everyday foods, including fruit, vegetables, wholemeal bread, oats, beans and lentils. One of its main benefits is that it helps food move through the digestive system, making it easier to go to the toilet and helping to prevent constipation.
Fibre also helps feed the good bacteria in our gut. These bacteria are important for keeping our gut healthy and supporting digestion. Eating enough fibre can also help us feel fuller for longer, which is another reason it is worth including in our daily meals.
So, how much fibre should we be eating? The recommended amount for adults in the UK is 30g a day. However, many people do not manage to reach this target.
Getting more fibre into your diet does not have to be difficult. Simple changes, such as choosing wholemeal bread instead of white, adding fruit to your breakfast or including beans and lentils in your meals, can all help.
It is also important to increase fibre gradually and drink enough water, as suddenly eating a lot more can cause bloating and wind.
Overall, fibre is an important part of a balanced diet, and making a few small changes can help keep your gut healthy and your digestion regular.