Fibre is an essential part of everyone’s diet. A nutritious diet needs to have a lot of fibre. Fibre is also termed as roughage and can be got from fruits and vegetables and also from whole grain foods.

Eating a high fibre diet will help control and prevent colon cancer. Fibre helps to get rid of the bacteria that causes cancer in the body. It also helps in the absorption of water and thereby increases the water in the body and eases the process of waste elimination. Fibre also helps to soften the stools. It helps in reducing complications in other diseases. It is a very important component for those suffering from stomach troubles and also problems like piles.

Eating a high fibre diet is also good for diabetics. Regular fibre intake will reduce the need for insulin. It is also important to eat fibre in moderation and not in excess, as too much of it can remove other minerals like calcium and iron from the body. Eating it moderately will not do much harm. Understand your individual need before adding fibre to the diet.

The correct amount of fibre can also help in lowering cholesterol. Those suffering from cholesterol should avoid wheat bran and opt for oat bran and beans instead. Excess fibre will make you feel bloated and may cause diarrhea.

Instead of using fibre supplements, use natural foods which are high in fibre. Avoid processed foods as most of the fibre is lost during processing. When you eat fruits which have the peels removed, you have stripped them of all their natural fibre. Have them in their natural, raw form so that you can derive all the nutritive value from them. Also encourage your children to eat fruits in this form from an early age.

Always consult your doctor on the amount of fibre you need, especially if you have some health concern like cholesterol, diabetes or stomach ailments. There is no set formula that can be applied to everyone, and your need is special. You must have your diet tailored to suit these needs. First try natural fibres before you resort to any supplements.