Nourishing your Gut: The Importance of Fibre in your Diet

Are you getting enough fibre in your diet? With the average adult recommended to consume between 25-30g per day, it’s essential to ensure you’re fuelling your body with the right nutrients to support a healthy and digestive system. Luckily, incorporating fibre-rich foods into your meals is easier than you might think!

One of the simplest ways to boost your fibre intake is by focusing on plant-based foods. Grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds are all excellent sources for dietary fibre. Opt for wholegrain or wholemeal varieties of bread and pasta, along with other whole grains like rice, oats and quinoa. Aim to include at least two pieces of fruit and five servings of vegetables in your daily meals.

For an extra fibre kick, consider adding psyllium husk to your diet. Psyllium husk can be easily incorporated into yoghurt, porridge/oats, cereal, or smoothies and are readily available at your local supermarket or health food shops. To avoid discomfort, start with a just half a teaspoon per day, gradually increasing your intake over several weeks while staying hydrated.

Speaking of hydration, increasing your water intake is crucial when upping your fibre consumption. Aim for around 40ml per kilogram of body weight, with an additional litre per hour of strenuous exercise to support proper digestion.

Why is fibre so important? Not only does it keep things moving smoothly through your digestive system, preventing constipation, but it also nourishes your gut microbes. By feeding these beneficial bacteria, fibre helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn can reduce inflammation and improve digestion.