Despite the popularity of fiber as a health food and the abundance of high fiber products in the market, the average American consumes less than 20-35 grams of the daily recommended allowance for fiber. In fact, we are lucky if we eat 12-25 grams of it. Apparently the advice of the American Dietetic Association and the Surgeon General to eat a high fiber diet has fallen on deaf ears.

Most of the time people avoid high fiber diets because they are worried that it might cause gas, bloating and bowel problems. These can be prevented however, by following the diet properly. The benefits offered by the diet include: regular bowel movement, more efficient detoxification processes and healthy weight maintenance.

An author specializing in digestive health, says that there are some fiber rich foods such as grains, legumes, indigestible sugars and starches found in vegetables that actually cause such problems. According to her these foods are not properly digested by the body thus instead of being broken down, they travel to the colon where they can be fermented by intestinal bacteria. The result is the production of intestinal gas which is the reason why you feel bloated.

The same author also suggests that to ease occasional gas and bloating, we should be conscious about the types of starches we eat and if necessary, take supplemental enzymes to support digestion particularly when starting on a high fiber diet. Such supplements should be those that include amylase for starch digestion, alpha-galactosidase for the sugars found in beans and legumes, and cellulase which can aid with vegetable fiber.

There are other causes of gas and bloating aside from fiber and these are:

1. Swallowed air. It is normal to swallow small amounts of air while eating and drinking. There are times when a lot of air is taken in when talking while eating, drinking carbonated beverages and eating too fast. This produces an odourless gas that is high in nitrogen and oxygen which is released through belching.

2. Processed foods. Eating processed foods on a regular basis can result in the production of excess gas. Essential nutrients such as copper, magnesium, cobalt, chromium manganese and zinc are taken out of processed foods and as a result, the carbohydrates in these foods are not properly digested by the body and these become fuel for the production of gas.

3. Poor food combining. The above author points out that fruit should be eaten alone because otherwise the digestive process will be slowed and the fruit can ferment. Based on this logic, protein should not be combined with starchy carbohydrates.

You may switch to a diet which consists of a lot of fruits, vegetables and grains without much pain and discomfort usually associated high fiber foods. By taking a supplement that offers digestive support and addressing the other causes of bloating, your transition woud be pain free and comfortable.

About the Author

Charles Alonso Volcolatte is a health and weight loss researcher for www.readysetweightloss.com. He writes and researches actively on Healthy Diet Weight Loss  and shares his knowledge at www.readysetweightloss.com where he works as a staff writer.

Posted: October 30th, 2009 under Weight Loss Tips.
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A weight loss product comes in different forms and offer different results. Zipflizz is drink that is promoted as a healthy alternative to coffee and energy drink. This product is low in both calories and carbohydrates which, as we know, are two elements that primarily results in weight gain.

Zipflizz effervescent tablets are best known for their long time use as cold relief aids. It makes a line of liquid, powdered and effervescent products designed for a number of purposes. The recommended daily dose of chromium has been lowered to 35mcg and 25mcg for adult men and women, respectively. Zipflizz weight loss formula contains 200mcg of chromium.

High Fructose Corn Syrup is an ingredient that is often used in diet drinks. The use of ingredient is not advisable, because it is an artificial sweetener that can pose health problems to its consumer. Ironically, his ingredient may also promote weight gain, and indeed be a healthier option. We do not believe that it can effectively help in promoting weight loss because it does not contain the necessary fat burner or appetite suppressant that would did in the promotion of weight loss.

To be sure of optimal result, herbal weight loss product should contain Hoodia Gordonii, an herb known for its appetite suppressant properties. Hoodia Gordonii is traditionally used by Africans; it has been proven safe and effective over the years. A Hoodia Gordonii is also known as native fruit of Africa. Garcinia cambogia is a source of Hydroxycitric acid (HCA). HCA has been shown to help metabolize lipids.

The basic role of Coleus forskohlii (a.k.a. forskolin) is to alter cell communication and, therefore, alter some of the body’s functions. Some of the possible effects of forskolin include relief from high blood pressure, inhibition of allergic reactions, and increased fat-burning capabilities. Theoretically, this is done by increasing the production of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), a molecule in cell communication linked to metabolism. Side effects of forskolin include irritation for those with ulcers as it may stimulate gastric acid. Also, this substance may be a point of diabetes caution for those with due to stimulation of lipid release and gluconeogenesis.

Glucomannan is a dietary fiber derived from rood of the elephant yam (knonjac plant) which originates in Asia. Clinical research to suggest that glucomannan may aid in suppressing the appetite. It has the ability to bind to water in the digestive track and create gel-like masses which give the feeling of satiety (being full).

Phaseolamin is a substance extracted from white kidney beans. Carbohydrates are broken down by the enzyme alpha-amylase into simple sugar before being absorbed by the body. Research for phaeolamin also shows a slight improvement in weight loss result in a test against a plaebo.

Charles Volcolatte is a health and weight loss researcher for www.skinnyasap.com. He writes and researches actively on Weight Loss Information and shares his knowledge at www.skinnyASAP.com where he works as a staff writer.

Posted: October 29th, 2009 under Weight Loss Tips.
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