Obesity, overweight and other gastrointestinal (GI) related conditions (especially Inflammatory bowel syndrome)) are some of the most frequent and troublesome problems for which person seek medical attention. Besides this, unhealthy food choices also contribute to symptoms like bloating, gas, constipation and much more. Daily use of fibre can improve the gastrointestinal performance as well as diminishes the symptom severity.
The typical western diet is often lower or lack in fibre and high in simple carbs like refined flour which ultimately increase the risk of GI disorder and other non-communicable diseases (diabetes, Cardiovascular disease etc). Taking too much fibre may end in worse condition than low fibre diet. Therefore, it is usually recommended to increase the fibre intake gradually in your diet. A gradual and steady increase of fibre powder shows beneficial effects and regulates the bowel movement which in turn, reduces the painful symptoms related to IBS.
In addition to this, the daily intake of dietary fibre enhances the overall health. Hence, the addition of fruits and veggie in everyday routine imparts strong healthy effects. Certain studies anticipated that fibre treatment may be beneficial for IBS patients as they are more prone to constipation. How does fibre work in our body? Dietary fibre is a type of complex carbohydrate which remains undigested as it passes through the gastrointestinal tract of humans but gets fermented in the colon by bacteria. This fermentation results in the production of short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, certain gases (carbon dioxide, methane) etc. Thus, dietary fibre supplements are one way through which fibre can be easily added in our daily meal without any hardship.
There are basically two types of dietary fibre one is soluble and other is insoluble fibre. Resistant maltodextrin, inulin and partially hydrolysed guar gum are some of the soluble fibre. It forms a clear gel when dissolved in water. It is found in oats, fruits, barley, beans etc. In contrast, insoluble dietary fibre remain undissolved in water and its main function is to add bulk to the stool by extracting water thus help in maintaining the regular bowel movement. It mainly recommended during diarrhoea.
- It helps to manage weight
- Reduce cholesterol
- Alleviate constipation
- Manage diabetes
- Promote the growth of intestinal good bacteria.
- Lowers the cholesterol by reducing the bad cholesterol.
So, fibre supplementation is the easiest and convenient way to improve the overall gut health.