List of High Fiber Foods
From LoveToKnow Diet
Everyone knows that fiber is essential in the diet, but we're not always clear on what foods, exactly, contain fiber, and that's why a comprehensive list of high fiber foods comes in handy.
Importance of Fiber
Have you ever wondered why an extremely low carbohydrate or high protein diet often leaves you constipated? Sluggish bowels are due to the low fiber content of such diets. Diets high in animal products and low in plant foods can wreak havoc on the digestive and elimination systems. On the other hand, a fiber-rich diet, one full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is necessary for normal bowel function and regularity. In addition, a high fiber diet helps:
- Regulate blood sugar
- Reduce the risk of diabetes
- Lower cholesterol
- Reduce the risk of colon cancer
- Treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Reduce the chances of heart disease
An added benefit is that fiber helps people reach and maintain a healthy weight. Current guidelines state that adults need 25-30 grams of fiber per day for optimal health.
Free List of High Fiber Foods
Fiber-Rich Fruits
Fruit provides good sources of natural fiber and tops our list of high fiber foods. For both insoluble and soluble fiber, leave the skin on apples, pears, berries, and other fruits with edible skin.
| Fruit | Serving Size | Fiber in grams |
| Apple (with skin) | 1 medium | 4.4 |
| Banana | 1 medium | 3.1 |
| Blueberries | 1 cup | 3.5 |
| Figs, dried | 2 medium | 3.7 |
| Orange | 1 medium | 3.1 |
| Pear (with skin) | 1 medium | 5.1 |
| Raisins | 1.5 oz | 1.6 |
| Raspberries | 1 cup | 8 |
| Strawberries | 1 cup | 3.3 |
Vegetables That Are High in Fiber
Many vegetables are also high in fiber. For a diet naturally high in fiber, incorporate the following veggies into your daily meal plans.
| Vegetable | Serving Size | Fiber in grams |
| Artichoke, cooked | 1 medium | 10.3 |
| Broccoli, cooked | 1 cup | 5.1 |
| Brussels sprouts, cooked | 1 cup | 4.1 |
| Carrot, raw | 1 medium | 1.7 |
| Corn, sweet | 1 cup | 4.6 |
| Peas, cooked | 1 cup | 8.8 |
| Potato, cooked, with skin | 1 medium | 4 |
| Tomato paste | 1/4 cup | 2.7 |
| Turnip greens, cooked | 1 cup | 5 |
High Fiber Grains
Grains, especially bran, pack a lot of fiber into a small amount of food. Grains are also filling, allowing you to feel full while eating less food.
| Food | Serving Size | Fiber in grams |
| Barley, cooked | 1 cup | 6 |
| Bran flakes | 3/4 cup | 5.1 |
| Bread, rye | 1 slice | 1.9 |
| Bread, whole wheat | 1 slice | 1.9 |
| Oatmeal | 1 cup | 4 |
| Popcorn | 3 cups | 3.6 |
| Rice, brown | 1 cup | 3.5 |
| Spaghetti, whole wheat | 1 cup | 6.3 |
Beans, Nuts, and Seeds
For added crunch, flavor, and fiber, add nuts and seeds to your salads and yogurt. They are also healthy snack options on their own. In addition to their high fiber content, nuts and seeds are sources of heart-healthy fats.
| Food | Serving Size | Fiber in grams |
| Almonds | 1oz | 3.3 |
| Black beans, cooked | 1 cup | 15 |
| Black-eyed peas | 1 cup | 12 |
| Green beans | 1 cup | 4 |
| Kale | 1/2 cup | 6 |
| Lentils, cooked | 1 cup | 15.6 |
| Lima beans, cooked | 1 cup | 13.2 |
| Pecans | 1 cup | 2.7 |
| Pistachio nuts | 1 oz | 2.9 |
| Spinach | 1/2 cup | 6 |
| Split peas, cooked | 1 cup | 16.3 |
| Sunflower seeds | 1/4 cup | 3.6 |
| White beans | 1 cup | 12 |
Learn More
Comments
Hi Lynda,
With so many different problems, I would suggest you talk to your doctor for specific dietary guidelines.
Donna
-- Contributed by: Donna SundbladHi,
I have been diagnosed with a fructose,lactose and wheat intolerance and since have changed my bowel diet, have ongoing problems with constipation. I also have irritable bowel. Do you have any suggestions?
-- Contributed by: lynda b
This page has been accessed 5,367 times. This page was last modified 12:58, 2 July 2009.
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