Struggling to get your daily dose of fiber?
These foods make it easy.
Youve probably heard fiber is good for you, but what exactly is fiber?
Photographer: Antonis Achilleos, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely, Food Stylist: Karen Rankin
Even though it sounds like one nutrient, there are two forms of fiber:soluble and insoluble fiber.
And each has its own distinct benefits and functions.
Unlike other carbs, which we digest and absorb, fiber passes through the gut largely intact.
Fiber has another neat trick.
Thats the good news.
The not-so-great news is that most people dont get nearly enough of this power nutrient.
Even though fiber is a carbohydrate, not all carbohydrates contain fiber.
Most mornings, I begin the day with a hearty bowl of oatmeal.
Its super filling, so I know midmorning hunger pangs wont sideline me.
But convenience isnt the only reason Im a fan.
But dont stop there.
Shake things up with thisRaspberry Yogurt Cereal Bowl.
Bulgur
1 cup, cooked: 8 g fiber, per theUSDA
Constipation is no fun.
Luckily, insoluble fiber can help keep things moving along, perMedlinePlus.
Bulgur is one of the best sources of this digestion-friendly fiber.
These tiny wheat nuggets pack more fiber than any other grain.
And because bulgur is parboiled, its a cinch to prepare.
Its used in Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
But its also a tasty addition to aFresh Herb Lemon & Bulgur Pilaf.
Figs
3 fresh medium figs: 5 g fiber, per theUSDA
Craving something sweet?
Unless those foods happen to be beansthese guysoffer a mix of complex carbohydrates, fiber and protein.
At the same time, they have zero fat and cholesterol, making them a natural for heart health.
Thats as much as youd get from four slices of whole-wheat bread, perUSDA data.
So, go ahead and toss a giant handful into a bowl of yogurt or cereal.
Or, for a speedy fiber-packed breakfast or snack, blend them into thisBlackberry Smoothie.
What makes resistant starch so great?
Unlike most carbohydrates, resistant starch escapes digestion, traveling through your gut until it reaches the colon.
Dont just save sweet potatoes for side dishes.
Try them in thisCheesy Sweet Potato & Black Bean Casserolefor a double dose of fiber.
Related:Does Eating High-Fiber Foods Cause Weight Gain?
Here’s What a Dietitian Says
