A hidden dinner party in your lower intestine is a fascinating world where trillions of microorganisms feast on undigested food, including fibre. This seemingly selfish activity has a profound impact on your overall health, benefiting your gut, brain, heart, and immune system.
Fibre, often considered the most unglamorous nutrient, has been lauded as a superfood due to its numerous benefits. Research has made significant progress in understanding the full complexity of fibre’s effects and how to maximize them. Studies are uncovering the power of different types of fibre to:
* Reduce inflammation
* Improve immune function
* Enhance mental health
* Even act as “nature’s Ozempic” by controlling appetite
However, it’s essential to note that not all fibre is created equal. The fibre often added to processed food has limited effects, whereas a diet rich in whole foods can reap the full benefits.
The definition of dietary fibre is the part of ingested food that cannot be broken down by our digestive enzymes. Unlike popular belief, different types of fibre have distinct properties and functions. Further research will help us unlock the secrets of this often-overlooked nutrient and reap its incredible rewards for optimal health.
Source: https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26635382-000-were-finally-uncovering-fibres-remarkable-benefits-for-body-and-mind