If you read our blogs, you know that we’re always talking about the importance of fiber in your weight loss plan! Fiber performs a variety of functions, from aiding in weight loss to protecting against some serious diseases. So you might be wondering whether you should add fiber supplements to your daily regimen.
The case for fiber supplements. Sometimes adding a fiber supplement to your diet can be a good idea. This is particularly true if you’ve restricted calories so low that you find it difficult to consume enough fiber-containing foods to meet a daily quota. Sometimes fiber supplementation might also be necessary for people with a range of dietary restrictions, perhaps due to allergies or severe sensory difficulties with foods.
If you do add a fiber supplement to your routine, keep in mind that a sudden increase in fiber can trigger bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort. So take it slowly, and gradually build up to your intended daily dose over the first week or two. Also remember that some fiber supplements contain added sugar; that’s something you probably don’t want if you’re following a weight loss plan.
The case against fiber supplements. There is one primary “down side” of supplementing with fiber. The foods that contain fiber, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are good for us in other ways. They contain vital nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that perform a variety of functions in our bodies, related to good health. If you’re supplementing to reach a dietary fiber quota each day, simply because your favorite foods lack enough fiber, then you probably aren’t eating a very healthy diet. You could become deficient in a number of important nutrients.
The verdict: Whether or not to supplement with fiber comes down to your individual needs. To learn more about a healthy diet and weight loss plan that really works, call us to schedule a consultation. We can discuss your recommended fiber intake, as well as other important nutritional issues, and establish an eating plan that helps you reach your health goals.
