We are all aware of the significant role that fiber plays in the prevention of disease and in the maintenance of overall good health. Because our diet does not provide us with the sufficient amount of fiber we need, it is necessary to take a daily fiber supplement. Sounds simple enough, however how do you determine which is the best fiber supplement to take? The answer has always been psyllium but more and more are choosing flax. A careful study of both types of fiber has shown that flax is the better choice. The following are the reasons why:
1. The ratio of soluble to insoluble fiber in flax is better than that of psyllium.
2. Flax contains lignans which are rich in antioxidants whereas psyllium does not.
3. Psyllium causes constipation while flax does not.
The Natural Balance Advantage:
The recommended 25-40 grams of daily fiber should have a ratio of 75% insoluble fiber to 25% soluble fiber. This can be met by eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and some grains. Flax has a ratio of 65-75% insoluble to 25-35% soluble fiber while psyllium husk has roughly 20% insoluble to 89% soluble fiber making the former the better choice as a daily supplement. Both types of fiber are important but flax which mimics the balance of a good diet is certainly the better choice for a supplement.
The Lignan Advantage:
Flax contains lignans which are natural substances that have potent antioxidant properties while psyllium does not. According to experts, flax contains about one times more lignans than any other source.
In the digestive tract, lignans binds toxins and helps the body flush them out before they can create health problems. There is growing evidence that prove lignans work with the immune system and intestinal bacteria in ways that support good health.
The Health Advantage:
Flax is not known to cause intestinal discomfort whereas complications resulting from psyllium use are common. Psyllium husk absorbs a significantly large amount of water due to its 80% soluble fiber content. For this reason it is used in ice cream as a thickening agent and is also added to newly planted grass for better water retention.
When it enters the digestive tract it expands as it absorbs water thus when taking flax, one needs to significantly increase the amount of water one drinks otherwise it might lead to dehydration. The use of flax also often results in constipation which is ironic because many people take fiber precisely to ease problems with difficult bowel movement. In the end, what is really important is not so much the type of fiber you choose but the amount you consume which is 25 to 40 grams a day as recommended by the nutrition experts.
Author Resource:-
Charles Volcolatte is a health and weight loss researcher for www.skinnyasap.com. He writes and researches actively on Dieting Products Information and shares his knowledge at www.skinnyasap.com where he works as a staff writer.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.massagebyben.com/articles/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites 