What is Fibre? Why It’s Important and How to Boost Your Intake

What is Fibre?

Fibre consists of indigestible carbohydrates present in the cell walls of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. It promotes faster gut mobility, which helps microbial formation of short-chain fatty acids. These, in turn, have the potential to counter obesity and type 2 diabetes by acting against inflammation, as well as protecting against cancer. These findings were recognised in a study by The University of Otago, in New Zealand, very recently in 2020. Although the study found that increased fibre can increase life expectancy, it was also recognised that eating processed foods may remove these benefits.

Soluble and insoluble fibre

There are two type of dietary fibre, soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre dissolves in water whereas insoluble doesn’t, yet both have great benefits. Additionally, soluble fibre aids digestion and helps to reduce blood sugar levels, which can assist in reducing the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Insoluble fibre also helps to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and promotes bowel regularity by adding water to stools, preventing constipation.¹

A diet rich in both types is desirable for optimal health and immunity. Additionally, research has recognised that increasing dietary fibre in obese individuals can play a role in reversing metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.²

All of The Fast 800 recipes boast an impressive amount of fibre, protein and healthy fats and the meal plans on the online programme have even further benefits. The meal plans have been developed with fibre in mind to ensure your daily nutritional goals are met and as a result, taking the need for any of your own calculations away.

Ways to boost your fibre intake

The Mediterranean-style diet is a great place to start. Time and time again, science has recognised the Med-style diet to be one of the healthiest in the world. The food is naturally high in fibre meaning you’ll have little to worry about, if following this way of eating.

However, if you’re looking to improve your dietary fibre intake, ensure you incorporate some of these “superfoods” into your unprocessed, Mediterranean-style diet.

Fruit

Pears
6 grams in a medium-sized pear

Apples           
4 grams in a medium-sized apple

Strawberries
3 grams in one cup, or 2 grams per 100 grams

Raspberries  
One cup contains 8 grams of fibre

Avocado
10 grams in a cup

Vegetables

Carrots
3.6 grams in one cup

Artichoke
10 grams in one artichoke

Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale and spinach are also excellent choices. 

Legumes

Lentils
16 grams per cup of cooked lentils

Kidney Beans
13 grams per cup of cooked beans

Chickpeas
13 grams per cup of cooked chickpeas

Other legumes include black beans and lima beans, as well as pinto beans.

Grains

Quinoa
5 grams per cup of cooked quinoa

Oats
17 grams per cup of raw oats

Wholemeal bread
2g per slice

Nuts and Seeds

Chia Seeds
5g per tbsp

Almonds
2.1g per 25g serving

Also pistachios, walnuts, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds.

Other sources

Dark Chocolate
3 grams in a 1-ounce piece

Popcorn
1 gram per cup of air-popped popcorn