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August 25, 2025
"Fibre is the new protein"—and here’s why it matters
You’ve heard that fibre keeps things moving—but did you know it can also help manage weight, lower cholesterol, and support heart health? Here’s what makes this nutrient so essential.
**"Fibre is the new protein"—and here’s why it matters**
For years, protein has reigned supreme as the nutritional champion, touted for its muscle-building and satiety-boosting benefits. But a new contender is stepping into the spotlight: fibre. While often relegated to a supporting role in discussions about healthy eating, fibre is increasingly being recognized as a powerhouse nutrient with a wide array of benefits that extend far beyond just digestive regularity.
We all know fibre helps keep things "moving" in the digestive tract, preventing constipation and promoting a healthy gut. But the advantages of a fibre-rich diet go much deeper than that. Emerging research is highlighting fibre's critical role in weight management, cholesterol reduction, and the support of overall heart health.
So, what exactly makes fibre so essential? Fibre, a type of carbohydrate that the body can’t digest, comes in two main forms: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre dissolves in water, forming a gel-like substance that can help lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Good sources include oats, beans, peas, apples, citrus fruits, carrots and barley. Insoluble fibre, on the other hand, doesn't dissolve in water and helps move food through the digestive system, promoting regularity and preventing constipation. Whole-wheat flour, wheat bran, nuts, beans and vegetables such as cauliflower, green beans and potatoes are good sources.
The weight management benefits of fibre stem from its ability to promote feelings of fullness. High-fibre foods tend to be more filling than low-fibre foods, so you're likely to eat less and stay satisfied longer. This can be a significant advantage for those looking to manage their weight.
Furthermore, studies have shown that adequate fibre intake can significantly lower cholesterol levels. Soluble fibre, in particular, binds to cholesterol in the digestive system, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Beyond weight and cholesterol, fibre plays a crucial role in supporting overall heart health. By helping to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation, fibre contributes to a healthier cardiovascular system.
Incorporating more fibre into your diet doesn't have to be a chore. Simple swaps, like choosing whole grains over refined grains, adding beans to your meals, and snacking on fruits and vegetables, can make a big difference. As the understanding of fibre's benefits grows, it's clear that this often-overlooked nutrient deserves a
For years, protein has reigned supreme as the nutritional champion, touted for its muscle-building and satiety-boosting benefits. But a new contender is stepping into the spotlight: fibre. While often relegated to a supporting role in discussions about healthy eating, fibre is increasingly being recognized as a powerhouse nutrient with a wide array of benefits that extend far beyond just digestive regularity.
We all know fibre helps keep things "moving" in the digestive tract, preventing constipation and promoting a healthy gut. But the advantages of a fibre-rich diet go much deeper than that. Emerging research is highlighting fibre's critical role in weight management, cholesterol reduction, and the support of overall heart health.
So, what exactly makes fibre so essential? Fibre, a type of carbohydrate that the body can’t digest, comes in two main forms: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibre dissolves in water, forming a gel-like substance that can help lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Good sources include oats, beans, peas, apples, citrus fruits, carrots and barley. Insoluble fibre, on the other hand, doesn't dissolve in water and helps move food through the digestive system, promoting regularity and preventing constipation. Whole-wheat flour, wheat bran, nuts, beans and vegetables such as cauliflower, green beans and potatoes are good sources.
The weight management benefits of fibre stem from its ability to promote feelings of fullness. High-fibre foods tend to be more filling than low-fibre foods, so you're likely to eat less and stay satisfied longer. This can be a significant advantage for those looking to manage their weight.
Furthermore, studies have shown that adequate fibre intake can significantly lower cholesterol levels. Soluble fibre, in particular, binds to cholesterol in the digestive system, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Beyond weight and cholesterol, fibre plays a crucial role in supporting overall heart health. By helping to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation, fibre contributes to a healthier cardiovascular system.
Incorporating more fibre into your diet doesn't have to be a chore. Simple swaps, like choosing whole grains over refined grains, adding beans to your meals, and snacking on fruits and vegetables, can make a big difference. As the understanding of fibre's benefits grows, it's clear that this often-overlooked nutrient deserves a
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