Dietary fibre used to be known as roughage. Most of it can't be digested by the human body but it performs a vital role in keeping the digestive system working properly.
Fibre is found in fruit and vegetables, beans and foods made from cereals like oats and wheat. Most people don't eat enough fibre.
Why is Fibre important?
Eating plenty of fibre keeps the digestive system working efficiently and helps prevent constipation.
- It can also help reduce high blood cholesterol levels.
- A diet rich in fibre also tends to be lower in fat due to the increased consumption of fruit, vegetables and cereals.
What can I do to increase my intake of Fibre?
Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and include foods made from cereals and beans in your snacks or meals.
- Wholemeal bread is a better source of fibre than white bread.
- If increasing the amount of fibre you eat, remember to increase the amount of water that you drink too.
Two digestive biscuits contain 1g of fibre, but before you raid the biscuit tin remember to keep a check on the total amount of fat and sugar that you are eating as well.
The recommended daily intake of fibre for an adult is 18g but the average intake is just 12g.