Fiber: the key to healthier skin and better digestion

Out of the 3 basic needs, that is food, clothing and shelter, which is that one important element found in either of the two? If you guessed Fiber, you are right!  Although their pronunciation remains alike, regardless of how they are spelt, one is a crucial material of the textile sector, while the other plays an evidently important role in our diet. However, we are primarily here to glorify the latter.  

What is Fiber?

Dietary fiber, often known as 'roughage' or 'bulk,' is a carbohydrate that the body is unable to process. Fiber, unlike other carbohydrates, does not break down into digestible sugar molecules and hence, passes through the intestinal tract relatively undamaged. The indigestible portions of plant-based diets are referred to as dietary fiber.  

It's critical that we obtain enough fiber in our meals because it aids in good digestion, weight management, blood sugar regulation, and more. It has also been related to increased longevity and lowers cancer risk. This brings us to this: Soluble and insoluble fibers - are the two basic forms of fiber. Soluble fiber is a type of fiber that dissolves in water and transforms into a gel-like substance. Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, maintains its shape in the body for the most part. 

What influence does fiber have on health? 

Fiber is gifted with an abundance of value to bring in our life. Fiber provides food for "healthy" intestinal flora. Consuming enough soluble, fermentable fiber is critical for good health because it improves the operation of the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Fiber can help you lose weight by improving your feeling of fullness, which leads to a lower calorie intake. After a high-carb meal, fiber can help to lower blood sugar surges. Those with viscous fiber have a lower glycemic index and generate fewer blood sugar increases than foods with little fiber. Fiber may help to reduce cholesterol levels in certain people. However, most research demonstrates that, on average, the effect isn't very substantial. 

What are the basic sources of fiber?

Fibers, both soluble and insoluble, have numerous advantages. Soluble and insoluble fiber are both included in most plant-based foods, although the levels of each differ. Rich sources of Soluble Fiber include- Beans, Barley, Lentils, Oatmeal, Apples, Peas, Blueberries, Citrus fruits. On the other hand, foods with whole-wheat flour, Cucumbers, Wheat bran, Tomatoes, Brown rice, Potatoes, Cauliflower, etc are good sources of insoluble fibers. Nuts and carrots, are rich providers of both types of fiber.  

How does fiber play a role in detoxifying? 

Dietary fiber has been demonstrated to boost antioxidant and detox enzyme activity in the liver. It has the ability to change bile acid pools. These pools are involved in the metabolism of fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the liver. Dietary fiber also benefits the microbiota, which aids in the production of secondary bile acids. A remarkable link has also been discovered between dietary fiber and the body's ability to burn fat (ketosis). This is performed by modifying gene expression patterns and metabolic products. The new patterns resemble those seen when the body is fasting. That's when your body starts burning fat for energy. 

How does fiber stimulate digestion?

Fiber is essential for gut function. Colon cells require fiber as a source of energy to stay healthy. Fiber keeps your bowel motions smooth and regular, which keeps your digestive tract running.  

Dietary fiber, which can be found in vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains, aids in intestinal regularity. Constipation is far less common in those who eat a high-fiber diet, and they have fewer hemorrhoids and diverticula (colon outpouching) than people who follow a low-fiber diet. A high fiber diet can cause loose stools, bloating, and even diarrhea. 

How does fiber help to make your skin healthier?

It's crucial to remember that what we consume has an impact on our skin. Fiber promotes blood circulation, maintains the thinness of skin, and increases the availability of oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, boosting the appearance of our skin from the inside out. Improving our diet is the most crucial thing we can do to achieve beautiful, youthful skin. A high-fiber, fluid-rich diet will result in soft, moisturized, and beautiful skin. Switching gradually from refined and processed foods to whole grains and natural fiber in our diet helps achieve that glow on our skin. 

In short

Dietary fiber has a number of health advantages. Therefore, fiber is key to healthier skin and better digestion. Additionally, viscous, soluble fiber may help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol, and prevent the spike in blood sugar that occurs after a high-carb meal. Therefore, try to acquire a range of fiber types from entire fruits, vegetables, and grains if you want to live a healthy lifestyle.