When we consume carbohydrates, our body breaks it down and converts into sugar (glucose). This is an important function of the body. Glucose is what propels our body with energy.
The problem is when conversion from Carbohydrate to Sugar happens too fast, sugar levels in our body spikes. This causes stress on our system. If this problem is sustained over a period of time, it can cause irreparable damage leading to diabetes among many other things.
We want the carbohydrates to be digested slowly enabling the nutrient absorption. If carbohydrates are digested slowly, conversion of carbs to sugar (glucose) will also happen slowly. This is possible if we consume food that is rich in fiber.
Given the prelude, let us talk about fiber.
Fiber is a carbohydrate but, body cannot digest it and hence it cannot be converted into sugar. So, there is almost no calorie associated with this. Fiber cannot be digested by the body. It passes through the body undigested.
There are two types of fiber existing in the food that we consume.
Type 1 – Soluble Fiber – If we put this fiber in water, it will dissolve in water hence the name soluble. This type of fiber, slows down the carbohydrates from getting converted to glucose and hence regulates the sugar while enabling better absorption of the nutrients.
Fiber can pervert the sudden spike of sugar. It will also make us feel full for longer time and hence reduce the hunger. It can keep blood sugar in control.
Type 2 – Insoluble Fiber – This fiber cannot dissolve in water. – The main job of this fiber is to transport the food through digestive system. Main benefit - prevents constipation.
We can get sufficient fiber (both types) from our regular daily foods such as wholegrains, nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruits such as apple (with outer skin), oatmeal lentil, quinoa, brown rice, legumes, leafy greens.
Anything refined such as polished/processed rice, multipurpose flour such as maida is not going to help as the process of refining essentially removes the fiber.
Soluble vs. Insoluble Fiber: The Dynamic Duo
Not all fiber acts the exact same way. To keep your system running perfectly, your body relies on two distinct types of dietary fiber working together:
Soluble Fiber (The Sponge): This type dissolves in water to form a gel-like material. It is a superstar for your circulatory system because it binds to cholesterol particles in your digestive tract and carries them out of the body before they can clog your arteries.
Insoluble Fiber (The Broom): This type does not dissolve in water. It adds bulk to your stool and acts like a literal broom, pushing food through your stomach and intestines to prevent bloating, sluggishness, and constipation.
Medical Authority Insight
Research shows that a high-dietary-fiber diet normalizes bowel movements, helps maintain bowel health, lowers cholesterol levels, and assists in controlling blood sugar levels. Studies also indicate that increasing your intake of dietary fiber—particularly cereal fiber from whole grains—is linked to a significantly lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
The Ancient Way to Meet Your Daily Fiber Goals
In our modern, fast-paced lives, it is incredibly difficult to track fiber intake. Relying on highly processed "diet cookies" or synthetic supplements often ends up irritating your gut rather than healing it.
At SIRIMIRI, we look backward to our roots to solve this modern dilemma. Native Indian ancient grains are naturally rich in raw, unrefined plant fibers. We preserve these delicate nutritional structures to make healthy digestion effortless:
The Morning Cleanse: Our traditional Instant Pearl Millet (Bajra) Ganji is an outstanding source of rich soluble fiber. Drinking a comforting, warm flask of Ganji in the morning mimics that exact "digestive broom" effect, gently setting up your gut for smooth, efficient absorption all day long.
Whole-Grain Protection: Instead of refined white flour or polished rice that has had its high-fiber outer bran entirely stripped away, our Sprouted Sathu Maavu Mix utilizes intact native millets, red rice, and sprouted pulses to deliver heavy, complex carbohydrates that keep you full, energized, and light on your feet.
Always check the labels for the Dietary Fiber content. Fiber is not the nutrient known for its taste. But will help to increase days of our lives and can add values to those days.
