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Fiber Answers

FIBER ANSWERS


WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19, 2008

How High-Fiber Foods Work in Favor of Weight Loss

Despite oodles of advice touting the next best thing in weight loss, one thing remains certain: high-fiber foods can help. In addition to promoting healthy blood sugar levels and even eliminating calories from the foods we eat, fiber interacts with a hormone called cholecystokinin (CCK) to provide some pretty neat benefits to those who want to shed the pounds.
Many people are unaware that the small intestine produces this nifty little hormone that actually increases satiety (the feeling of fullness after a meal). Essentially, CCK is a messenger that tells the body that you are full and that it is time to stop eating. When you eat a diet high in fiber, that fiber helps promote and prolong the elevation of CCK in the blood, which in turn allows you to feel full for longer periods of time.
CCK is a gastrointestinal hormone responsible for stimulating the digestion of fat and protein. It is secreted by the duodenum (the first segment of your small intestine), which then stimulates the release of enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the gallbladder to aid in digestion. In fact, CCK mediates a number of physiological processes.
Among the first scientists to discover the effects of CCK was a team of researchers from the University of California, Davis. They found that women who ate a high-fiber meal released more CCK into their bloodstream than women who ate a low-fiber meal. The same was true of those who ate a high-fat meal as opposed to a low-fat meal. Have you ever noticed that when you eat a lot of fat, as with a big juicy steak, you feel satisfied? That’s because fat releases the same hormone. Those who ate the high-fat and high-fiber meals reported a greater feeling of fullness, which was attributed to higher levels of CCK in their bodies. And what about men?
Another study confirmed that the same results applied to men. A group of male subjects was tested using a high-fiber meal and a low-fiber meal in random order. Both the test meal and the control meal included eggs, bread, jelly, orange juice, milk, and margarine. The high-fiber meal contained white beans, whereas the low-fiber meal contained rice and dry milk. The researchers measured the subjects’ levels of CCK before the meals and then for six hours afterward. Not surprisingly, the results indicated a CCK response that was twice as high after the high-fiber meal as after the low-fiber meal.So whether you’re set on shedding a few pounds or you simply want to help curb your appetite throughout the day, be sure to stock up on fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds. You’ll soon see why a little fiber goes a long way!

Posted by Brenda Watson,N.D. at 10:13 AM | 60 Comments

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19, 2008

Fiber Supplements to Beat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Fiber supplements can be tremendously beneficial for IBS sufferers. Although supplements such as Metamucil and Citrucel are generally marketed as laxatives, and are very useful for constipation sufferers, they can also be used to combat diarrhea because they add bulk to the diet and can make waste food more solid.These supplements are not really medications – most are simply fiber products with no added drugs or herbs, and so they can be taken long term on a daily basis without worrying about side effects. They’re just the equivalent of adding lots of fruit and bran to your diet, but without having to eat daily apples or worry about bloating from the bran.Do check, though, that the supplement you choose is just made up of fiber and nothing more, as you will occasionally find one that has added chemical laxatives or other ingredients that can upset your stomach.It is important to make sure you find the fiber supplement that’s right for you, as IBS sufferers often have very sensitive stomachs. Some people find that the psyllium fiber in supplements such as Metamucil can irritate their intestines, so if that happens to you try one of the methylcellulose products such as Citrucel, or other types of fiber such as acacia fiber.Another point to be aware of is that some manufacturers use artificial sweeteners in their products, and these can sometimes cause problems for IBS sufferers. There should be a normal, sweetener-free version to choose instead, and the amount of sugar in a few spoonfuls should not have a huge impact on any diet you are on.Whatever type of fiber you choose, you must make sure to build the dosage up gradually. If you add masses of fiber to your diet all at once you will probably feel very gassy and bloated. Instead, try just a small spoon of fiber once a day and build up to the recommended dose on the label. Most supplements will recommend that you take the product with lots of water, and to make sure you are drinking enough water for the rest of the day as well.It will take a little while before you see the effects of the supplement, so don’t give up if you don’t feel better after a few days. Try taking a supplement for one or two weeks to really give it time to work.These days there are many different ways to take fiber supplements. You can buy the traditional powder form, which is swallowed with water or soft food, or you can buy wafers, tablets or capsules, which can be very handy if you need to travel and don’t want to carry a whole can of fiber with you.
Posted by Sophie Lee at 10:10 AM | 1 Comments

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19, 2008

Make Lentils Your Weight Loss Secret Weapon - Top Ten Ways You Benefit

Searching for the perfect food in your weight loss plan? Tired of the same old same old? If you've eaten your last lettuce salad, your willpower is crumbling, and you're longing for a burger for lunch, look no further than the humble lentil.

A disc-shaped legume and a dietary chameleon, lentils provide taste, nutrition, and variety.

An ancient food, lentils originated in central Asia as one of the earliest cultivated foods. The Bible tells us that Esau traded his birthright away to his brother, Jacob, for a humble meal of lentils.

Lentils find their way onto tables the world over as a staple in Indian homes and a common meat substitute in Catholic countries during Lent.

While many varieties exist, the brown lentil commonly lines American grocery store shelves.

Let's add up the benefits of lentils.

  1. Low in calories, fat, and cholesterolA dieter's dream, lentils contain 230 calories, 0.4 grams of fat, and 0 grams of cholesterol per one-cup serving.
  2. High in protein, iron, and many other nutrientsIn a single one-cup serving, lentils contain 7.8 grams fiber, 9 grams protein, and 6.59 mg.
  3. Cook easily and quicklyUnlike beans, lentils require no presoaking or overnight soaking. As a rule of thumb, use 1-1/2 cups of water to 1 cups of lentils. Approximately 20-30 minutes cooking time will suffice. Simply boil on the stove top or in the microwave.
  4. InexpensiveStarving college students take note! A one-pound package of lentils almost always costs less than one dollar, and usually less than 70 cents. Scout the lower shelves where grocers "hide" low-cost products.
  5. Adapt to many types of recipesLentils work well in soups, salads, and side dishes. Tired of noodles and spaghetti? Lentils substitute well for pasta. Or a try a comforting bean and lentil chili. Lentils serve warm in soups or cold in salads. The mild, slightly nutty flavor tastes delicious on its own and doesn't overpower other foods.
  6. Readily available in regular grocery storesNo need to go to an out-of-the-way health food store or ethnic store. Look in the dried bean section of any grocery store.
  7. Don't require a specific diet planYou don't need a complicated recipe or extensive menu. A simple soup with a ham bone, a bit of leftover roast beef, or a carrot and potato addition makes a great meal.
  8. Don't spoil easilyLentils last up to a year and need no refrigeration until cooked, so go ahead and stock up! The cooked lentils freeze well, too.
  9. Stretch meatAdd a cup of cooked lentils to hamburgers, sloppy joes, or meatloaf to cut cost, lower calories, and stretch your food dollar.
  10. Great for diabeticsTheir high-fiber content works to prevent blood sugar from rising following a meal.Kathy Ferneau
 

Posted by Administrator at 10:08 AM | 0 Comments

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19, 2008

Fiber Supplements - Different Types Of Fiber

Fiber supplements are generally recommended when a person is unable to get enough fiber in his or her diet. It can also be recommended in the case when someone is suffering from some chronic intestinal clause like 'irritable bowel syndrome' or IBS. This is also known as Crohn's disease. Although it is always advisable to add adequate quantity of fiber in someone's diet still fiber supplements are sometimes become essential. A fiber supplements should be selected after considering some points such as if the supplements suits the person or not. The supplement should be taken in a small dose as preliminary stage. After taking it if the person is suffering from IBS or is giving bad gas the supplement should be changed. An ordinary person has to take twenty-five to thirty grams of fiber per day, which is recommended by many famous dietetic associations.Different types of fiberThere are different types of fibers, which are used to prepare the fiber supplements by many of the leading brands in the market. One of the most common is psyllium. This kind of fiber is a soluble plant fiber that is present in the Metamucil and also Konsyl. To get relieve from constipation, this type of fiber is commonly used. It also gives relieve from the general bowels problems. The user should always choose the supplements only after seeing the effects. Another brand is methylcellulose, guar gum or calcium polycarbophil. Acacia fiber is another one which his also popular in the market. But the important thing is that the individual should decide what is best for him.All of the above mentioned fiber supplements are water-soluble. They absorb water and as a result form a gel when it is mixed with any kind of liquid. These supplements are every useful and help to swallow the food smoothly. Soluble fibers are now a days widely used in comparison with the insoluble fibers as because soluble fibers helps in easing IBS indications. On the other hand insoluble fiber supplements should also be taken as it provide good health.Some of the brands make different flavour to present the supplement as more toothsome and also easy to drink. Sugar-free supplements should be avoided, as the ingredient, which is used in the place of sugar, may be sometime cause irritation to the bowel system. In the process of consuming fiber supplements there are some in the market present with chemical laxative. These products should be avoided, as prolonged use of these can cause harm to the total body system. 
Posted by Robin Brain at 10:07 AM | 3 Comments

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19, 2008

Fiber Foods - Some Key Benefits

People all around the world suffer from the diseases of digestive system and extra weight and are desperate to deal with them. Most of them do not know that solution to all these problems lie in the totally natural fibrous foods. Fiber foods hold many advantages. Many diseases just start from the irregularity with the digestive system of a person. Usage of fiber foods makes the functionality of the digestive system very smooth. Fiber foods have the natural ability to dissolve water in them on their way in the digestive tract, this helps in the smooth excretion process of a person. The second main advantage of using the fiber food is that it helps a person to loose his weight. Many people take numerous supplements and take any possible measures to loose their weight but that goes in vain. A person can naturally loose weight without any side effects by adding fiber foods into their daily diet. It is also believed that fiber foods help in control of the diabetes. A person who takes fiber food in his diet feels more active and efficient in his daily life as fiber food, unlike sugar gives more energy to body.

Adding Fiber Foods to your Diet:

As mentioned above, fibrous foods hold so many advantages that it must be used on daily basis. It is not very difficult to add fibrous foods to one’s diet. Mainly fibrous food is found rich in vegetables, fruits, grains and nuts. In addition, many food recipes should be prepared by mixing the fibrous foods in them. Many fibrous foods can even be adopting by replacing the other diets. Some other things should also be kept under consideration to achieve the daily goal of having the fiber in food. For example, apple’s skin should not be peeled off before eating as it is highly rich in fiber. There are cereals and shakes available in the market, which are highly rich in fiber. Further more there are many other ways of adding fiber to your diet without even feeling much change. A research can also be conducted over the internet to find more resources of fiber food.

Fiber Foods: The Final Word

With knowing all the benefits of fibrous foods and simplicity of its use, it is strongly recommended to add the fibrous foods in the daily diet. Where this can keep many people healthy, it can also help in curing many diseases like diabetes and it also help in loosing weight.

 

Posted by Administrator at 10:05 AM | 10 Comments

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19, 2008

Difference Between Organic and Natural

Many users of organic products seem to use the terms organic and natural interchangeably. I'm not a stickler for semantics, but those words actually have slightly different meanings.

Natural ingredients have nature as the ingredients' source. They are unaltered, untreated and not artificial. On the other hand, ingredients labeled organic have previously been certified by an organic certification body. This certifying body has ensured that the organic ingredients were cultivated without using synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and other synthetic chemicals like plant hormones or livestock feed additives.

In short, an organic ingredient is a natural ingredient but a natural ingredient may not be organic, since it could have been derived from methods that were not certified organic. The problem is that some unscrupulous companies freely label their products as being organic, even without proper certification. This propagates the labeling confusion among consumers.

Even for products certified organic there are three different levels, causing further confusion.

1. "100% organic" label

This is for products composed entirely of certified organic ingredients.

2. "Organic" label

This is for products with at least 95% certified organic ingredients.

3. "Made with organic ingredients" label

This is for products with at least 70% certified organic ingredients.

Products with the above labels can also display the logo of their approving certification body. Products with less than 70% organic ingredients cannot display these labels, but can merely mention it in their ingredient statement.

The differences in the organic labels due to the varying organic compositions are seemingly subtle, especially to a casual user. In particular the "Made with organic ingredients" label for 70% organic composition, blurs the distinction between organic and natural. This further propagate the confusion between organic and natural products.

 

Posted by Administrator at 10:03 AM | 0 Comments

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19, 2008

COLON CLEANSING NATURALLY

Nature intended for your colon to eliminate waste material and bacteria and absorb water and mineral salts while maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. A colon that cannot perform these functions properly, due to impacted fecal matter creates extra toxins that spread across the body through the absorbed fluids.

Many health problems, including abdominal pain, constipation and lack of energy, can be related to an unhealthy bowel caused partly or largely by eating and drinking products that form a lot of built up waste inside the colon. People consume large amounts of toxic substances daily, including caffeine, sugar, white flour, aspartame, microwave-cooked food, hydrogenated fats and deep fried foods, which results in pounds of unwanted matter forming in colon.

To get rid of these unwanted accumulations colon cleansing is a natural and easy way. There are many colon cleaning changes you can introduce to your lifestyle that you can try right away.

To start the colon cleansing process, you must make certain amendments to your diet. Our diet is generally now full of food which has been changed in many ways from what nature intended. Improvements in nutrition often bring adequate results alone, and the colon starts cleansing naturally. To begin colon cleansing, you must take adequate amounts of fiber, 25-30 grams daily, dissolved in water or in food.

Drinking water is essential for a healthy colon. To stimulate the natural peristaltic action, a person should drink half of his or her weight in ounces of pure non-carbonated water. For example, if your weight is 150 pounds, you should drink 75 ounces of water, which is approximately 2 liters. If you drink enough water and consume a sufficient amount of fiber, your colon will restore its function over time.

Herbs are the great way to perform a mild colon cleansing. Herbal colon cleanse recipes help in removing fecal matter, prevent toxin formation, kill the harmful bacteria and parasites, and improve the function of colon muscles to promote natural and regular bowel movements.

Herbs used in the traditional colon cleansing recipes have been tested for centuries. Basically all herbs in colon cleansing recipes have liver cleansing and cathartic actions. Aloe leaf, senna, cascara sagrada, ginger, and cayenne pepper help eliminate impurities from the colon by stimulating bowel movements. Every herbal colon cleanse recipe includes some sort of a bitter plant that promotes bile flow to cleanse the liver, for example, barberry which stimulates liver and gall bladder. Fennel and garlic have purifying action on the colon bacteria, as they help killing harmful bacteria. These two plants also prevent gas formation.

You can buy colon cleansing herbs in most health stores, follow the instructions on the labels carefully. Many great colon cleansing teas are sold in ready to use packets. Use these in moderation to prevent too frequent bowel movements that can dehydrate you. With time and experience you will learn more and will be ready to make adjustments, increasing or decreasing the herbs according to the desired result.

When performing colon cleanse as a course, continue taking a fiber with your meals in form of wheat germ, oat bran, or rice bran cereals for breakfast. The more lifestyle changes you perform, eating healthy food such as fruit, vegetables, good supplements, and drinking enough water, the more success you will have in returning your colon to a healthy state.

 

Posted by Administrator at 10:01 AM | 14 Comments

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19, 2008

Choosing a Fiber Supplement - Organic Flax Wins Hands Down

Flax vs. PsylliumBecause fiber plays a significant role in disease prevention and maintaining your overall health, it is important to take a daily fiber supplement, but which is the best fiber supplement for you? Although traditionally the answer has been psyllium, more and more people are choosing flax. After conducting extensive research on both types of fiber, Essential Health has also voted in favor of flax. Here’s why:1. Flax provides a better balance of soluble to insoluble fiber.2. Flax contains antioxidant-rich lignans, while psyllium does not.3. Psyllium may cause constipation; flax does not.1. The Natural Balance Advantage:When you consume the recommended 25-40 grams of daily fiber through a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and some grains, you consume a ratio of approximately 75% insoluble fiber and 25% soluble fiber. This is the natural balance that a healthy diet should provide.
Flax provides more or less the same ratio of insoluble to soluble fiber (65-75% insoluble and 25-35% soluble), making it a smart choice for daily supplementation. Psyllium husk, however, provides the opposite balance—roughly 20% insoluble to 80% soluble fiber. While both forms of fiber are important, mimicking the balance of a good diet is no doubt a better way to supplement with fiber.
2. The Lignan Advantage:Another important reason to choose flax over psyllium? Flax contains lignans, while psyllium does not. According to author and nutritionist Janis Jibrin, one of the chief benefits of flax is the fact that it contains natural substances called lignans, and lignans possess powerful antioxidant properties that may significantly reduce the risk of developing disease.
Experts estimate that flax contains one hundred times more lignans than any other source. As they enter the digestive tract, lignans are able to bind with toxins and help the body eliminate them before they cause physiological difficulties. A growing body of evidence shows that lignans work with the immune system and intestinal bacteria in complex ways that promote health.
3. The Health Advantage:While evidence of intestinal discomfort from the use of flax is hard to find, complications from the use of psyllium are quite common. Because of its 80% soluble fiber content, psyllium husk absorbs a tremendous amount of water. In fact, it absorbs water so efficiently that it is used as a thickening agent in ice cream and added to newly planted grass to help it retain water.As psyllium absorbs water expands in the digestive tract, it can cause dehydration if you do not significantly increase your water intake. As a result, many people experience one of the very things they are trying to prevent: constipation. Regardless of which you choose, however, the most important thing is consuming the 25 to 40 grams of fiber each day that many experts recommend.
Brenda Watson is a New York Times Bestselling author, a Naturopathic Doctor and President of Renew Life Formulas. She has been helping people achieve optimal digestive health for over twenty five years. High Fiber Diet Foods
 

Posted by Brenda Watson, N.D. at 9:50 AM | 243 Comments