What Happens When You Don't Eat Enough Fibre? | Nutritionist Explains | Myprotein

Why is fibre so important for your health? Dietary fibre plays a crucial role in digestion, gut health, cholesterol levels, blood sugar regulation, and even weight management. Yet many people in the UK aren't eating nearly enough of it. In this video, expert nutritionist Dr Richie Kirwan explains what dietary fibre actually is, the difference between soluble and insoluble fibre, how fibre supports your gut microbiome, and why increasing your fibre intake could be one of the simplest ways to improve your overall health. Key Facts: Fibre is a type of carbohydrate that isn't fully digested by enzymes in the human small intestine. Soluble fibre can help slow digestion, regulate blood sugar responses, and reduce LDL cholesterol, depending on the type of fibre. Insoluble fibre helps add bulk to stools and supports normal bowel movements. Certain types of fibre are fermented by beneficial gut bacteria, producing compounds called short-chain fatty acids. Short-chain fatty acids, including butyrate, play important roles in supporting the health of your gut. High-fibre diets are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer. Fibre can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially making it easier to manage hunger and overall calorie intake. UK guidelines recommend that adults aim for 30g of fibre per day, but average intake is considerably lower. Good sources of fibre include whole grains, oats, beans, lentils, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. FAQ: Q: Why is fibre important for your body? A: Fibre supports healthy digestion, normal bowel movements, gut bacteria, and metabolic health. Certain types can also help regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Q: How much fibre should you eat every day? A: UK guidelines recommend that adults aim for approximately 30g of dietary fibre per day. Q: What's the difference between soluble and insoluble fibre? A: Soluble fibre can dissolve in water and may help regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels, while insoluble fibre helps add bulk to stools and supports regular bowel movements. Many foods contain a mixture of both. Q: Does fibre help with weight loss? A: Fibre-rich foods can help increase fullness and make it easier to manage appetite, potentially supporting a calorie deficit when combined with an appropriate overall diet. Q: Is fibre good for your gut microbiome? A: Yes. Certain types of fibre provide fuel for beneficial gut bacteria, which ferment them to produce short-chain fatty acids that support gut health. Q: What happens if you don't eat enough fibre? A: Low fibre intake can contribute to constipation and may mean missing out on some of the long-term health benefits associated with fibre-rich diets. Q: How can you increase your fibre intake? A: Try adding more whole grains, beans, lentils, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds to your meals. Increase fibre gradually and drink enough fluids to help minimise digestive discomfort. #myprotein #wheyprotein #protein #nutrition ********************************* Myprotein is Rated Excellent on Trustpilot 🔔 Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/MyproteinUK?sub_confirmation=1 📲 Download the Myprotein app: https://myprotein.onelink.me/IYeO/o2erh9hb The UK & Europe's Number 1 Online Sports Nutrition Brand, Myprotein.