We all know that fiber is helpful for maintaining regularity, but it can have a surprisingly good effect on heart health, too. Pharmacist and health author Sherry Torkos’ article in Alternative Medicine explained why fiber, such as in the supplement Sunfiber, is important for your heart and waistline.
In addition to supporting intestinal health, fiber can help support:
- Healthy cholesterol levels
- Normal blood pressure
- Healthy blood glucose levels
- Weight management goals
The Institute of Medicine recommends adult women consume 25 grams of fiber a day, and men consume 38 grams a day. The National Fiber Council’s chart can help you determine how much fiber you are getting from the food you eat. If you are not getting enough, a supplement can help.
When choosing a supplement, Torkos said powders provide more fiber per serving than capsules and are often more cost effective. She also recommends choosing a fiber that mixes well with water, such as Sunfiber. Drinking plenty of water with the supplement can help move the fiber through your body.
Sunfiber is made from partially hydrolyzed guar gum through a slow fermentation process. This leads to better tolerability and no side effects, such as gas and bloating. Tasteless, colorless, odorless and gluten-free Sunfiber can be mixed with water or your favorite beverage. Sunfiber may also be added to food when cooking or baking. It won’t alter the taste or texture of foods.
In the article, Torkos included other suggestions for boosting fiber intake, including:
- Adding chia, flax seed, raisins or berries to your hot or cold breakfast cereal
- Using sprouted whole-grain breads
- Choosing sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes
- Choosing whole-wheat pasta instead of white pasta
- Snacking on nuts, seeds and dried fruit
Torkos advised readers to gradually increase their fiber intake, to help their bowels adjust. Sunfiber is a true regulating fiber because it may help with both occasional constipation and occasional diarrhea.
This information also appeared in Natural Solutions magazine and Health Central.
0 Comments