If I eat lots of fruit, will I get all the fibre I need?
Fibre is the collective term given for plant materials, which are not digested or only partly digested by man, and includes soluble and insoluble versions.
Fruit and vegetables are a rich source of soluble fibres. These form a gel in the presence of water and seem to help to even out blood sugar and may reduce cholesterol absorbed by the body.
Insoluble fibres are found in whole grain cereals. They absorb water and help to form bigger and bulkier stools that help to relieve and prevent digestive disorders like constipation. Whole grain cereals also supply the body with a host of protective antioxidant nutrients such as selenium and vitamin E.
Getting fibre from fruit and vegetables is great; getting it from other sources such as whole grains is also important for health and well-being.