Fibre - The Superfood that deserves more attention

Fibre: The Superfood that Deserves More Attention

As food technologists, nutritionists, and marketers, we are always on the lookout for the latest health trends and superfoods. We often focus on the latest fad, such as chia seeds or acai berries, and overlook one of the most important components of our diet – fibre. Unfortunately, many of us consume far less than the recommended daily amount of fibre, which can have significant consequences for our health and well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the important role of fibre in our diet, the current limitations in fibre analysis, and the innovative solutions available to help us meet our fibre needs.

Fibre is often overlooked in favour of other trendy superfoods, but it is a crucial component of our diet that can have a profound impact on our overall health and well-being. It comes in many forms and has a wide range of benefits, such as promoting healthy digestion, regulating blood sugar, reducing the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer, and improving immune function.

However, one limitation in fibre analysis is that some methods do not fully capture resistant starches, a type of fibre that has been shown to have important health benefits. By updating these methods of analysis, we can more accurately assess the fibre content of foods, including resistant starches, which would enable consumers to make more informed decisions about their diets. Additionally, by reviewing current health claims to align them with current research, we can ensure that consumers are receiving accurate and up-to-date information about the health benefits of fibre. This can help to increase awareness of the importance of fibre in the diet and encourage consumers to seek out more fibre-rich foods.

Prebiotic fibre is a specific type of fibre found in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, and it has been found to have significant health benefits. It promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn produce short-chain fatty acids that improve gut health, digestion, fullness, and immune function. Research has also shown that prebiotic fibre may reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and colon cancer.

Incorporating high-fibre carbohydrates into our diets is crucial for overall health. Foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and legumes contain both soluble and insoluble fibre’s that work to manage diabetes and reduce the risk of heart disease. Soluble fibres, like beta-glucan found in oats, barley, and mushrooms, can help lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar, promote satiety, and improve gut health.

Fibre is a vital component of our diet that plays a critical role in maintaining our overall health. As we learn more about the importance of the microbiome, the potential benefits of a fibre-rich diet become even more apparent. However, there is a growing concern that the pharmaceutical and medical food industries may take advantage of the manipulation of the microbiome for their own profits. Therefore, it is essential that we prioritize the importance of fibre and work to harness its potential as a superfood to help nourish the microbiome before these industries gain a stronghold in this area. With new advancements in crop development and innovative ways to incorporate fibre into our diets, the future of fibre is looking bright. By doing so, we can continue to support the health and well-being of individuals while also benefiting the food industry as a whole?

One innovative solution to help people meet their fibre needs is PulseON, a new cellular type of pulse flour. The intact plant cells in PulseON result in a slower release of nutrients and energy, making it beneficial for blood glucose management and appetite regulation. By incorporating PulseON into everyday foods, we can enrich them with good-quality carbohydrates and dietary fibre, making it easier for consumers to improve their nutritional intake. The benefits of PulseON are particularly promising for people who are overweight and/or living with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, using pulses as a sustainable crop can contribute to environmental sustainability. By increasing the consumption of pulses through PulseON, we can promote better health and a more sustainable future. @pulseOnfoods

In conclusion, fibre is a superfood that deserves more attention. By updating methods of analysis and health claims to reflect the latest research, we can raise awareness of the importance of fibre in our diet and encourage consumers to seek more fibre-rich foods. With innovative solutions like PulseON, we can make it easier for people to meet their fibre needs, leading to improved health and well-being.