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There are seven basic classifications of fiber: bran, cellulose, gum, hemicellulose, lignin,
mucilages, and pectin. Each form has its own function. It is best to rotate among several
different supplemental fiber sources. Start with small amounts and gradually increase your
intake until your stools are the proper consistency. Also, be aware that while today's
average diet is lacking in fiber, consuming excessive amounts may decrease the absorption of
zinc, iron, and calcium. Always take supplemental fiber separately from other medications or
supplements. Otherwise, it can lessen their strength and effectiveness.
One of the following should be part of the daily dietary plan:
There are many products available that combine two or more different types of fiber, or that
combine fiber with other ingredients. Two products of this kink that can be recommended are:
Fiber
Bran, Gums, & Mucilages
Cellulose
Hemicellulose
Lignin
Pectin
Combination Fiber Supplements
Found in many foods, fiber helps to lower the blood cholesterol level and stabilized blood
sugar levels. It helps prevent colon cancer, constipation, hemorrhoids, obesity, and many
other disorders. Fiber is also good for removing certain toxic metals from the body. Because
the refining process has removed much of the natural fiber from our foods, the typical
American diet is lacking in fiber.
In addition to using a fiber supplement, you should make sure to get fiber through your diet.
Make sure your diet contains these high-fiber foods: whole-grain cereals and flours, brown
rice, agar agar, all kinds of bran, most fresh fruit, dried prunes, nuts, seeds (especially
flaxseeds), beans, lentils, peas, and fresh raw vegetables. Eat several of these foods daily.
When eating organic produce, leave the skin on apples and potatoes. Coat chicken in corn
bran or oats for baking. Add extra bran to cereals and breads. Unsalted, unbuttered popcorn
is also excellent for added fiber.
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information: Diets - Fiber Enhanced Diet
Both gums and mucilages help to regulate blood glucose levels, aid in lowering cholesterol, and
help in the removal of toxins. They are found in oatmeal, oat bran, sesame seeds, and dried
beans.
helps to get rid of fat. It has been recognized for normalizing blood sugar and is good for
people with hypoglycemia. Glucomannan expands to 60 times its own weight, thereby helping to
curb the appetitite. Taking 2 to 3 capsules with a large glass of water 30 minutes before
meals is helpful for reducing allergic reactions and some symptoms associated with high and
low blood sugar disorders. Always be sure to drink a large glass of water when taking
glucomannan in capsule or pill form, as capsules can lodge in the throat and expand there,
causing breathing problems. Glucomannan is tasteless and odorless, and can be added to
foods to help normalize blood sugar.
Cellulose is an indigestible carbohydrate found in the outer layer of vegetables and fruits.
It is good for hemorrhoids, varicose veins, colitis, and constipation, and for the
removal of cancer-causing substances from the colon wall. It is found in apples, beets,
Brazil nuts, broccoli, carrots, celery, green beans, lima beans, pears, peas, and whole
grains.
Hemicellulose is an indigestible complex carbohydrate that absorbs water. It is good for
promoting weight loss, relieving constipation, preventing colon cancer, and controlling
carcinogens in the intestinal tract. Hemicellulose is found in apples, bananas, beans,
beets, cabbage, corn, green leafy vegetables, pears, peppers, and whole grain cereals.
This form of fiber is good for lowering cholesterol levels. It helps to prevent the
formation of gallstones by binding with bile acids and removing cholesterol before stones
can form. It is beneficial for persons with diabetes or colon cancer. Lignin is found in
Brazil nuts, carrots, green beans, peaches, peas, potatoes, strawberries, tomatoes, and
whole grains.
Because it slows the absorption of food after meals, pectin is good for people with diabetes.
It also removes unwanted metals and toxins, reduces the side effects of radiation therapy,
helps lower cholesterol, and reduces the risk of heart disease and gallstones. Pectin is
found in apples, bananas, beets, cabbage, carrots, citrus fruits, dried peas, and okra.
MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics: Natural Food Supplements Index
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index
MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics Index
MoonDragon's Health Index Page
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information & Discussion Index by Subject Order
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information & Discussion Index by Alphabetical Order