Fiber is Healthy, But How?

You’ve probably heard that you need more fiber in your diet. It helps reduce cholesterol levels, lowers the risk of cancer, and absorbs harmful toxins in your intestines. But, how does it do all that? Natural Awakenings magazine reports that a study from the Medical College of Georgia helps explain how fiber is so powerful.

The research biologists say that as high fiber foods work their way through your intestines, they “run into cells, tearing them and freeing lubricating mucus within, which promotoes the health of the [gastrointestinal] tract.” The mucus helps protect your body from harmful outside factors and helps you stay slim.

Some high fiber foods are: beans, bran cereals, berries, greens, pears, and whole grain bread.

This entry was posted on Saturday, April 28th, 2007 at 9:50 am and is filed under Cancer, Cholesterol, Fiber. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.

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One Response to “Fiber is Healthy, But How?”

Lynne Eldridge M.D. Says:
May 1st, 2007 at 12:35 am
Laurel,

As a researcher on cancer prevention, I absolutely love your entries. I have a friend that is hosting a cancer prevention recipe contest on her Website. Winners are random, and prized will be generous! If you know of anyone who would like to share a cancer prevention recipe, have them check out http://www.wellnessandbeyond.typepad.com

Lynne Eldridge