I've read countless articles on fiber and its weight loss benefits, yet I still don't consciously consume extra fiber each day. Maybe you're not on the fiber bandwagon yet, either, but you should be.
CaloriesPerHour.com reports that, "Fiber makes us feel full sooner and stays in our stomach longer than other substances we eat, slowing down our rate of digestion and keeping us feeling full longer." It also says that a single serving of whole grain bread can be more filling than two servings of white bread. Fiber also prevents less fat from being absorbed in our bodies, because it moves fat through the digestive system quickly.
It should also be noted that meat and dairy products contain ZERO fiber, although they are good for other reasons.
In order to be sure that you're getting actual wheat or grain products, look for the terms, "100% Whole Wheat," or "100% Whole Grain," on the label. Breads simply called "wheat" are mostly likely white bread with caramel-coloring.
Since fiber doesn't cause the insulin spike that refined carbohydrates cause, there is no crash that causes us to feel tired and have hunger cravings soon after we eat. Usually, that craving is for more sugary carbs.
Now, don't go out and load up on fiber if you don't normally consume much. You'll just end up cranky, gassy, and bloated. And remember to drink water.
For examples of foods high in fiber, check out my Fiber Overview post: http://bellybabybody.blogspot.com/2008/11/fiber-overview.html
sources:
http://www.caloriesperhour.com/tutorial_fiber.php
http://www.carbs-information.com/dietary-fiber-good-for-weight-loss.htm
http://www.hughston.com/hha/a_15_2_5.htm
2 comments:
I take a fiber pill every day and that seems to work well. I just found it easier to do that b/c I wasn't consistent with my eating of fiber.
you should do whatever works! I've read things like "it's better to do cardio after weight lifting" or whatever, and I think that you should do things in a way that make you most likely to do them...
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