Gut doctor details what different shapes of faeces mean
A toilet expert has revealed that the majority of British people fail to consume an adequate amount of carbohydrate that keeps their guts and stools healthy.
Only nine percent of the population meets the recommended daily intake of 30 grams of fibre.
According to Jordan Kelly, toilet expert and brand marketing manager for Oceans, dietary fibre keeps your number twos in check, which is why you should eat plenty of high-fibre foods each day.
He said: “Dietary fibre increases the weight and size of our stool and softens it, which decreases the chance of constipation.
“In a similar way, if you have diarrhoea, fibre has the power to help solidify the faeces because it absorbs water and adds bulk.”
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And your poos aren’t the only ones that can benefit from fibre consumption. Kelly explained that fibre has been linked to a variety of health benefits.
Weight loss
People who eat more carbohydrates tend to have lower body weights than those with diets that lack fibre.
“This is thought to be because fibre increases feelings of fullness, so you naturally eat less food. Less food [means] less calories consumed throughout the day,” the expert said.
Lower cholesterol levels
Hidden in the likes of oats and vegetables, soluble fibre binds with cholesterol in the small intestine, preventing it from entering your bloodstream.
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Improve your blood sugar levels
The expert explained that because fibre cannot be broken down into sugar molecules, it passes through the body undigested.
“As a result, it helps regulate sugar levels and, therefore, keeps your blood sugar in check,” Kelly said.
If you’re not sure where to start, the expert offered easy tips on how to slowly transform your gut health.
Kelly said: “By making a few simple switches, you could dramatically increase your fibre intake. For example, have only whole grains with your evening meal (brown rice, quinoa, dark rye bread); regularly enjoy fruit and porridge for breakfast; snack on nuts and seeds.”
The expert recommended including the following fibre-rich foods in your weekly shop:
- Pears
- Strawberries
- Artichokes
- Avocados
- Oats
- Apples
- Raspberries
- Bananas
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Brussel sprouts
- Lentils
- Kidney beans
- Split peas
- Chickpeas
- Popcorn
- Almonds
- Whole grains
- Quinoa
- Chia seeds
- Dark chocolate
- Sweet potatoes
- Whole-wheat pasta.
He explained that the switch to fibre should be like a marathon and not a sprint. He recommended gradually increasing your fibre intake to avoid digestive discomfort.
“You could start with snacks, then move to breakfast, then tackle lunch and dinner,” he added.
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