I would like to share a couple of links before diving into the article:
Fiber is essential for a balanced healthy diet. While animal products offer no fiber, plants offer fiber with every bite. Fiber aids digestion, assists in lowering cholesterol levels, and assists in regulating blood glucose levels among other benefits (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2016). Animal products do not have the fiber, therefore cannot support these claims. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Beans (2016) sources of fiber include; fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. The recommendation for daily fiber intake is 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories. This translates to 28 grams for a 2,000-calorie diet, daily. Mayo Clinic Staff (2016) recommends 38 grams per day for men up to age 50 and 30 grams for men over the age of 50. The article goes on to recommend 25 grams per day for women up to age 50 and 21 grams per day over the age of 50. Simply put, fiber is exclusively in plants and key to successful digestion and therefore well-being. One caveat is to not overload on fiber if your digestive system is not accustomed to copious amounts of fiber. Gradually introduce additional plant-foods with each meal. For example, if you have spaghetti with meatballs for dinner, have an orange or a small salad before you eat your main meal. I hope you are well!
Cheers!
-Kyle
References
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2016). Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet. Mayo Foundation. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2016). Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for Diverticular Disease. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diverticulosis-diverticulitis/eating-diet-nutrition
Plant Based Strength 