Fiber

Fiber is the key to feeding the microbiome-- the bacteria in the human digestive tract. The microbiome is the secret to a healthy digestive tract that allows us to break down foods and extract the nutrients from them. Healthy digestion is the key to a long and healthy life. Joseph Mercola writes, "fiber is such an important component of health that I recommend you go beyond food sources and take it as a supplement."

There are two basic kinds of fiber, soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber forms a gel-like mass in the digestive tract. It slows the absorption of glucose and lowers insulin levels. It also nourishes beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract and also nourishes the lining of the digestive tract. Insoluble fiber binds to toxins in the gut and moves them out of the body. It also speeds up the transit time and works to moisten the stool helping to prevent the medical complications associated with constipation.

Transit time is the period of time from when a food is consumed until the time the residue is eliminated. An optimal transit time is considered by some to be 18-24 hours. Many people in the United States have a transit time of 3 days or longer.

The recommended intake of fiber is at least 35 grams a day. Most Americans consume less than 15 grams a day. The result is an epidemic of constipation, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, diverticulosis and many other problems.

NeoLife has an all natural Fiber Food and Drink Mix that provides 6 grams of fiber per serving. It provides all five types of dietary fibers known to be necessary for health including cellulose, hemicellulose, gums, lignin, and pectin.

Reference:

Mercola, Joseph, Fat for Fuel, New York: Hay House, Inc., 2017, 78-80.