Fiber and diabetes - What you need to know

Saturday, September 14, 2013 by: Sandeep Godiyal
Tags: fiber, diabetes, healthy diet

(NaturalNews) For individuals around the world who have type 2 diabetes, there is a need to check the fiber content in their meals immediately, since quality is just as significant as the quantity.

The research

New research indicates that people who have type 2 diabetes are advised to increase their intake of fiber-rich foods. Fiber is not digested by the body. Therefore, it will not raise blood sugar, and that is good news for people who have type 2 diabetes. Fiber-rich food can help blunt the effects of carbohydrates, and the reason behind this is that intestines will take more time when it comes to digesting fiber-rich foods. This will result in a slower release of glucose in one's bloodstream. Therefore, it is advised that one checks the labels and aims to increase their intake of fiber.

New studies show that 50 grams of fiber is recommended for daily consumption. The problem is that 50 grams is a lot of fiber for the average American. According to the American Heart Association, the average American only consumes about 15 grams of fiber a day, while the American Diabetes Association recommends that an average person consumes 25-50 grams of fiber each day. Although the recommended fiber intake may be difficult to achieve, it is not impossible. Good sources of fiber may include whole grain products, dried beans, oats, apples and pears, to state a number of examples.

Keep in mind that not all fibers are the same. Because of this, not all fibers offer the same health benefits. However, all fibers generally help improve the control of blood glucose by keeping blood sugar spikes in check.

When it comes to fibers, there are two primary types: soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber is the kinds of fiber that dissolves in water easily. This kind of fiber helps lower cholesterol, since it will bind to the cholesterol and be excreted from the body.

Insoluble fiber is the one that is not easily digested by the body. This kind of fiber keeps the digestive tract working longer. They make an individual feel full for a longer period of time.

Both kinds of fibers are good for the body. They can help an individual when it comes to feeling full faster and longer. They also help keep the body from overheating.

Then there is the subject of fiber supplements. The truth is, fiber supplements may work for some people. It all depends on the body's physiology. The biggest drawback, when it comes to fiber supplements, is that one is only getting the fiber and not the other nutrients that are offered by fiber-rich food.

Sources for this article include:

http://diabetes.about.com

http://www.health.com

http://www.diabetesmonitor.com

About the author:
Sandeep has written many health field articles for both Internet and print publication. He currently writing for insurancetips4u.co.

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