What is Fibre?

Find out more about fibre, and some specific types of fibre

What is fibre?

What is fibre?

We’ve probably all heard of fibre. We might even know that we need to eat it to keep our gut healthy. But why do we need fibre? And what exactly is it?

Fibre is a macronutrient that comes from plant-based foods such as fruit, vegetables and grains, so straight off you can see it’s going to be a joy for your insides. Fibre, unlike other carbohydrates, is not digested in the small intestine. Rather, it passes through the digestive system into the large intestine, and helps your body to eliminate waste material. Some types even become ‘food’ for the bacteria living there.

If you’re looking for good sources of fibre then look no further than the bran in grains like wheat. Wheat bran is one of the most effective fibres for helping with regularity and has the most scientific evidence.

 

The term 'prebiotic fibre' might be new for some people.

Remember how some fibre becomes ‘food’ for some bacteria living in the large intestine? Prebiotic fibre specifically targets important gut bacteria. So, when you eat well, your bacteria eats well, too!

Some food, such as wholegrains, beans, onions, chicory root, garlic and artichokes, contains small amounts of prebiotics. But if you want to super-size your intake, go for food with added prebiotics.