High-Fibre Diet
Nutritional approach
A diet with a high fibre content helps to treat constipation and irritable bowel syndrome. It can also reduce the absorption of cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease and provide a certain amount of protection against colon cancer.
Although fibre supplements are available, we should ideally satisfy all of our needs through nutrition. Fibre is found in fruit, vegetables, nuts, legumes and whole grains. By varying the food sources of fibre and avoiding processed or refined products, we can also increase our supply of vitamins and minerals, which is important for a diet that is rich in fibre.
Guide for a diet rich in fibre
✓ Increase your consumption of whole grain products: bread, cereal, flours, etc. (6 to 8 portions per day);
✓ Increase your consumption of fruit, vegetables (7 to 10 portions per day) and legumes;
✓ If possible, eat the peels of fruits and vegetables;
✓ Choose products that are rich in fibre to attain a daily supply of least 25 grams;
✓ Increase your consumption of water to at least 2 liters per day.
When starting a high-fibre diet, you may experience certain unpleasant effects: flatulence, intestinal noises, cramps, diarrhea. To alleviate these effects, increase your consumption of fibre progressively. The unpleasant effects will diminish within 4 to 5 days. Your bowel movements may also be more voluminous, softer and will pass through your intestines quicker. The effectiveness of this diet is maximal after several months.
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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.