Vegetarians and Fiber

Does changing your diet to vegetarian mean that you are inherently healthier than omnivores? On the surface, this statement seems to be true, as people often associate vegetarianism with a high intake of fruits and vegetables. However, a poorly planned vegetarian diet can often result in worse health. Foods like pasta, bread, chips, and sugary drinks are all allowable in the vegetarian diet but do not provide the necessary vitamins.

When done well, a vegetarian lifestyle can be incredibly healthful. This means focusing on whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Great examples of these nutrient-dense foods include chard, spinach, sweet potatoes, low-fat yogurt, lentils, dried beans, and oats. Focusing on whole foods—a staple in a well-planned vegetarian diet—increases all-around nutrient/vitamin intake.¹ In fact, those in this category enjoy a higher than average vitamin and mineral intake compared to other Americans, and this is especially true of fiber.² Vegetarians and vegans consume around 41 g and 34 g of dietary fiber, respectively, every day. Omnivores, on the other hand, struggle to consume the recommended 25 g per day. This added fiber intake helps the body prevent disease.³

If an all-vegetarian diet isn’t for you, there are still ways to incorporate the necessary fiber into your diet.  Avocados, apples, and broccoli are fiber-rich foods that are easy-to-find and prepare. Additionally, Fiber Choice^® tablets, gummies, and Flavor Drops^™ are a convenient way to get more of the daily fiber you need. Omnivore or herbivore, we could all benefit from getting enough dietary fiber each day. Fiber Choice can help close the fiber gap. Learn more about the benefits of fiber and how Fiber Choice products can help you reach your wellness goals.

^{1 Harvard Health Publishing. Getting your vitamins and minerals through diet. Harvard Health. http://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/getting-your-vitamins-and-minerals-through-diet. Published April 30, 2018. Accessed January 14, 2020.
2 Link R. 12 Mistakes to Avoid on a Vegetarian or Vegan Diet. Healthline. http://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vegetarian-and-vegan-mistakes. Published July 28, 2017. Accessed January 14, 2020.
3 Sandoiu A. Study reveals how much fiber we should eat to prevent disease. Medical News Today. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324153.php#1. Published January 11, 2019. Accessed January 14, 2020.}