Fiber

How do fiber-containing foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains benefit people with diabetes? Some short-term studies show that those with type 1 diabetes may have some benefit in decreasing the amount of insulin needed and may have some improvement in their cholesterol and triglyceride levels. However, for any significant benefits to occur in those with type 2 diabetes, dietary fiber intake needs to be significantly higher (nearly double) than what's required for the general population. The U.S. Surgeon General recommends 20 to 35 grams of fiber per day. To put this amount of fiber into perspective, one serving of a common fiber supplement such as Metamucil contains 3 grams of dietary fiber. Most Americans eat only about 10 grams of dietary fiber a day. So to get enough fiber just to meet the recommended amount, you would have to supplement your diet with at least 7 servings of fiber. In fact, experts question whether it is even realistic to consider eating this amount of fiber without significant side effects, not to mention how bad it must taste. So again, my suggestion is that you meet with your dietitian to find foods that are high in fiber that you can eat and enjoy for a lifetime.