2014 has just begun, so why not wipe the slate clean and start fresh? One of best things you can do for your health is to stock up on fiber, which studies have shown may help you lose weight by making you feel fuller longer. With that in mind, check out the must-know facts of adding fiber to your diet.
1) You're Not Eating Enough Of It
In order to maintain a healthy digestive system, nutritionists recommend women eat 25 grams of dietary fiber per day, but most eat only 15 grams. An easy way to get fiber into your meals is by incorporating prepackaged meals. Women's Health reader Andrea Schpok recommends the Smart Ones Chicken Quesadilla, which contains 7 grams of fiber. "This would be a good alternative to take-out for people who are busy. It would be smart to keep one in the freezer at the office as well," she says.
2) Water is Necessary To Its Magic
The key to increasing your fiber intake is to add more fiber slowly into your diet in order to minimize any discomfort. And the most important part? Drinking plenty of water. Fiber can't work without it.
3) There Are Two Types You Need To Eat
Women should digest both soluble and insoluble fiber for the best results. Good sources of soluble fiber are beans, peas, lentils, oatmeal, seeds, apples, and strawberries. Examples of insoluble fiber are whole grains, brown rice, carrots, celery, green beans, dark, leafy vegetables, and raisins. So next time, try a lentil soup and brown rice stir-fry for a super combo. See more easy examples of upping your fiber here.
4) Juice Is Not the Same As Fruit
While hydrating is necessary, remember that eating whole fruit has more fiber than juice. A good trick to getting more fiber into your day is by blending fruit into a smoothie—but make sure to leave the edible skins in. They pack the most fiber.
5) Aim for 5 Grams or More Per Serving
Another great example is the Smart Ones Mini Rigatoni with Vodka Cream Sauce, also with 7 grams of fiber. Add a spinach salad with fresh veggies and you've got yourself a fiberful meal. "Smart Ones pre-portioned the meal for me so that I didn't overindulge. I almost felt that I could have divided this into two meals," says Women's Health reader Jaime Desimone. "This Smart Ones Italian dish is now approved by one very picky Italian.