High fibre foods to add to your diet and why

As we get older, we find ourselves becoming more mindful of our health. One aspect that needs more attention is our diet. We admit that prioritising our health means making healthy choices with the food that we eat. Apart from keeping our waistline in check, incorporating high fibre foods into our diet is a simple yet essential way to improve gut health, which in turn affects many other parts of the body positively. Not only does fibre help regulate our blood sugar levels, but it also protects our heart. 

First, before we explore some delicious high fibre foods that can seamlessly fit into our daily meals, we think you should know that there are two types of fibre— soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre dissolves in water, helping us regulate our blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Insoluble fibre, on the other hand, doesn’t dissolve in water. It helps with our digestion and prevents constipation. Now, here are some fibre-rich foods that we can still enjoy and reap the health benefits.

Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are not only a tasty treat like the name implies but also have more fibre than the Irish twin. One thing we love about them is that they can be used in a variety of dishes, from roasted sides to fries. Their fibre content helps to improve gut health by promoting healthy bowel movements.

Dark Chocolate: Who said we couldn’t enjoy a treat as healthy adults? Dark chocolate is a great way to sneak in some fibre. It’s best to go for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa to ensure you’re getting the most benefits. Enjoying a small piece after your meal can satisfy that sweet tooth.

Oats: Now we know why oats are a breakfast staple and for good reason. A bowl of oats topped with fruits and nuts makes for a great and filling start to the day.

Berries: Berries like raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries are not only delicious but also high in fibre. We love to use them for our smoothies, salads, or even as a snack on their own. The high fibre content in berries helps with digestion and reduces inflammation.

Chia Seeds: This is your sign to add those tiny seeds into your smoothies, yoghurt, or  acai bowl. They hold a lot of  nutrients and are both soluble and insoluble fibres. Chia seeds are known to make you feel fuller for longer and support digestion.

Almonds: Almonds are the perfect snack that provides a good amount of fibre. They are also rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. A handful of almonds can be a quick, nutritious snack that helps to keep you satisfied between meals. However, just like every other nut, it’s important to make sure you’re not allergic to it.

Avocado : This has to be one of our favourite foods to have for breakfast. Adding avocado to your salads, sandwiches, or even as a topping for toast is that game changer you’ve been waiting for, trust me. It’s also a source of healthy fats for our heart.

Legumes: Legumes like beans and chickpeas are great for trying out several recipes. They can be used in soups, stews, salads and the best side to a bowl of rice—talk about a favourite cousin.

Fruits like Apples and Bananas: Apples and bananas are fruits that come with a good amount of fibre. Apples are great for digestion. Bananas, on the other hand, regulate blood sugar levels.

We think that adding these high fibre foods to your diet doesn’t have to be a difficult task. By incorporating a variety of these options, you can improve your gut health, regulate blood sugar, and protect your heart. Remember, small changes can make a big difference, and your journey to better health starts with the choices you make every day.