Why fibre should be the new ‘protein’
High protein this, high protein that — for many years, protein has been the star of the show across the nutrition landscape, particularly on the internet and social media. However, as much as protein is fantastic and super vital in our diets, it might be time for the spotlight to shine on another hero in the nutrition world: fibre.
Yes, fibre might not have the same reputation as protein, but its health benefits are just as impressive — if not more so. From supporting gut health to reducing the risk of chronic diseases, fibre deserves a prime spot on your plate, and this is why:
Boosts your gut health (and your mood!)
Your gut loves fibre — and I mean loves fibre. In fact, it really can’t do without it. Fibre acts as food for the good bacteria in your gut, which helps maintain a healthy microbiome and keeps things moving along nicely (if you know what I mean).
A thriving gut microbiome doesn’t just support digestion — it also influences our mood and mental health through something known as the gut-brain connection. Did you know that 95% of our serotonin (the happy hormone) is created in the gut?. So very cool!
Weight loss and appetite control
While protein is often praised for keeping you full, fibre is just as effective. Plus, the benefit of fibre above protein is that whilst both keep you fuller for longer - high fibre foods are typically lower calorie than high-protein foods, which is a win for those looking to lose weight!
High fibre foods, like whole-grains, fruits vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, slow digestion and promote satiety. This means you’re going to feel fuller for longer, and you are less likely to experience energy crashes or cravings.
Wards off chronic diseases
As you can see, fibre isn’t just for keeping things moving within our gut. A high-fibre diet has been linked to a reduced risk of several chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. Soluble fibre in particular, which is found in foods like oats, legumes and fruits, helps lower cholesterol levels and improves heart health, reducing the risk of events such as heart attacks and strokes.
So next time you’re planning your meals, try and shift your focus to aiming for at least 25-30g of fibre per day. Simple tactics like filling half your plate or meal with non-starchy vegetables, choosing fruit and vegetables as snacks and opting for whole-grains instead of refined gains can make a world of a difference. Your gut, mood and overall health will be thanking you!