High Fiber Solutions in a White Bread House

September 8, 11:46 AMHealthy Living ExaminerElizabeth Renter

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Not all families can stomach a whole wheat lifestyle. While there is nothing I love more than a nutty whole grain bread, I know that this is not something that the majority of Americans share with me. Fiber is a very important aspect of a good diet. Whole grains deliver quality fiber without all the sugars that white bread and pasta have.

Because we, as Americans, are demanding healthier fare in supermarkets, whole grain alternatives are not difficult to find now. And compared with what we were offered 10 years ago, they actually taste good! Whole wheat pasta used to taste like sandy mush and whole grain breads were often dry and tasteless. Now, however, you can venture out of your comfort zone into high fiber territory without fear of chewing on something that tastes like wood.

Pasta choices like Barilla Plus taste as good if not better than their white pasta counterparts. Try substituting the next time you make spaghetti and see if you can tell the difference. Have kids who don’t want their PB&J on anything but soft white bread? Trade it for a brand like Whitewheat bread that looks and tastes like white bread but packs the benefits of a slightly better wheat.

If you have never tried brown rice, you are truly missing out. While its appearance may make you think it will be dry and bland, its flavor is nutty and something you should really not miss out on. Top it with a teaspoon of olive oil, parsley, and some parmasean cheese sprinkles and you have an excellent side dish.

A high fiber diet not only keeps your digestive system moving along, it also has been shown to lower your risk of heart disease and diabetes. In the weight loss realm it is important to note that high fiber foods keep you fuller longer. This means that you will be less likely to hit up your coworkers candy dish or the vending machine down the hall. And don’t forget: many fruits and vegetables are extremely high in fiber and a good way of getting your daily intake up.