6 Easy Ways To Get More Fiber In Your Diet
Fiber is an essential part of any well-balanced diet. Not only does fiber aid in digestion and bowel health, it also helps to lower cholesterol, control blood sugar and maintain a healthy weight. Because everybody is different, the amount of daily fiber needed varies. Additionally, not everyone likes fibrous ingredients. Fortunately, there are many ingredients that contain a healthy dose of fiber, some which may be surprising. Read on to learn about 6 fiber-rich foods for any palate.
1. Popcorn
Popcorn is not only one of America’s favorite movie snacks, it’s also a great and easy source of fiber. With as much as 4 grams of fiber per serving (usually about three cups), popcorn is now more than just a snack.
2. Beans
All kinds of beans from kidneys, garbanzos, black beans, and cannellini (white) beans are chocked full of healthy fiber. What makes beans even better is that they can be used in numerous ways at nearly any meal.
3. Avocado
This super food makes most lists of healthy foods because of its rich nutrient properties. Avocados are rich in fiber, with nearly 10 grams per fruit and are great on sandwiches, in salads and as a topping for Mexican meals like tacos or burritos.
4. Whole Wheat
Swapping out white or “enriched” pasta and bread for whole wheat options is a great way to get more healthy fiber. While whole wheat pasta and bread may have a bit of a different taste or texture than regular white varieties, the extra fiber is worth the effort.
5. Edamame
Recently, edamame has gained attention as a great snack or addition to any meal. In addition to the crisp, watery texture of edamame that makes it such a great snack, the fact that it packs more than 10 grams of protein and up to 9 grams of fiber per serving makes this snack even better.
6. Artichoke
Who knew that under the rough, flower-like exterior of an artichoke was hiding a healthful secret? While artichokes have long been known for their antioxidant properties, they are also a plentiful source of fiber with more than 10 grams of fiber per whole artichoke.
