Figuring out fiber

Q: My doctor is always telling me I need more fiber. This might be a silly question, but what exactly is fiber and why is it so good for you?

JVW: It's an excellent question! Terms like "antioxidants" and "fiber" get thrown around a lot in medical settings and all too often are never really explained.

The term "fiber" refers to the parts of plant foods that your body can't digest or absorb. At first, it doesn't sound like it would be good for you. But clearly it is.

You see, since your digestive enzymes can't break fiber down as it does other food compounds such as protein, fats, and carbohydrates, it makes its way to your colon virtually unchanged. Which means it can usher out the by-products from the digestive process more easily.

And since your digestive system is one of your best defenses against toxins and disease, it makes sense that the faster you can extract the nutrients, and get rid of what you don't need, the better.

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