If your doctor didn't give you this advice at your last checkup, she probably should have: 97 percent of Americans don't get the recommended daily amount of dietary fiber they need to stay healthy. But what is fiber, and why is it good for you? Dietary fiber, sometimes called "roughage," is a plant-based carbohydrate found in fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains such as rice and wheat. Our bodies have a difficult time digesting fiber, which is actually a good thing - as fiber passes through the body undigested, it does a lot of good along the way! Fiber has many proven health benefits. It has been shown to improve heart health, lower cholesterol, control blood sugar, decrease the risk of stroke, help you feel fuller longer, prevent constipation and boost digestive health and your immune system. Experts like the Food and Drug Administration recommend we consume about 28 grams of fiber each day - which, it turns out, is a lot of food. You'd have to eat about 94 baby carrots, 47 stalks of celery, or 15 slices of whole-wheat bread to get your daily dose of fiber from food alone. To help people get the fiber they need, the FDA has approved seven ingredients that can be taken as supplements or added to food to boost the amount of dietary fiber they contain. One of those ingredients you may find on your food label is cellulose gel, or microcrystalline cellulose. Cellulose gel is derived from cellulose, an essential component of fruits, vegetables and trees. In fact, cellulose is so important to plants in nature, it is the most abundant organic compound on Earth. Cellulose gel offers the same great health benefits as the dietary fiber we find in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and can be found in foods such as yogurt, cereal bars and protein shakes. So when cellulose gel or microcrystalline cellulose appears on your food label, it means you're getting the same plant fiber found in broccoli and apples - without having to eat a lot of broccoli and apples (and without the hassle of cooking and meal planning).
Fiber: What It Is and Why You Need More of It in Your Diet
August 16, 2017 at 01:48pm. Views: 198
Related Articles
By Ulises Cabrera, Community Writer
June 4, 2026 at 02:04pm. Views: 218
Across Moreno Valley, students are reaching a milestone that represents years of dedication, growth, and perseverance. To the Class of 2026, this moment belongs to you, and it’s one worth celebrating.
By The Petersen Kids, Community Writer
June 4, 2026 at 07:55am. Views: 162
Niel “Pete” Petersen Turns 95 this weekend. B.Y.O.B, Bring Your Own Bible. Pete has long been a cherished and prominent member of the Grand Terrace community. He has also shared his insights and experiences as a contributing writer for City News Group, helping inform and inspire local readers. A man of deep faith, Pete is an active member of both Colton Christian Church and Centerpoint Church. As he celebrates his 95th birthday, the community joins together in honoring a life marked by compassion, service, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.
By Stella Pierce, Community Writer
May 13, 2026 at 01:38pm. Views: 1349
Business professionals and community leaders attend a luncheon networking event featuring guest speakers and local updates.
By Titan Mom Elvira, Community Writer
May 13, 2026 at 01:38pm. Views: 1128
Brenden Muir proudly represents Titan Baseball with dedication, leadership, and passion both on and off the field.
By Justus Baker-Postell, Community Writer
May 13, 2026 at 01:38pm. Views: 1509
Truly “The Truth” Adams secures a second-place podium finish at NOLA Motorsports Park during the opening rounds of the 2026 Ligier Junior Formula Championship.
By Carl M. Dameron , Contributing Writer
May 13, 2026 at 01:38pm. Views: 1310
PHOTO CAPTION: “This means so much to me because I love my students and the population I serve,” said Black Rose Award Winner Alisha James, Senior High Teacher at San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD).
By The Opinion of Vivian Johnson, Community Writer
June 3, 2026 at 12:04pm. Views: 295
Budget priorities can influence how communities support economic development, business licensing, and local entrepreneurship. This AI-generated illustration represents the connection between city financial planning and small business growth.
By Dr. G (Dr. Luis S Gonzalez), Community Writer
June 3, 2026 at 12:04pm. Views: 313
Dr.G, Council Member and Community Advocate and Delma Ledesma, award recipient.
By Miles Thornton, Community Writer
June 2, 2026 at 11:02am. Views: 435
Colorful resin keychains highlight how simple materials and creativity can produce polished, one-of-a-kind accessories at home.
By Paige Mercer, Community Writer
June 2, 2026 at 11:02am. Views: 351
A hand-decorated ceramic mug demonstrates how simple painting techniques can transform everyday items into custom home décor.
By Lucas Hart, Community Writer
June 2, 2026 at 11:02am. Views: 428
These balloon rockets races encourage curiosity, teamwork, and problem solving.
By Anthony Romano, Community Writer
June 2, 2026 at 11:02am. Views: 341
Tender teriyaki chicken glazed to perfection brings together sweet, savory, and satisfying comfort in every bite.