Blogging In Fiberland

A diet rich in high fiber foods is essential for your ultimate health. Dietary fiber is important for preventing or treating diverticulitis, diverticulosis, colon problems such as colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and crohn's disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and is especially important for a healthy weight loss program.

Studies have shown the benefits of a high fiber foods include prevention and treatment of constipation and hemorrhoids. Certain types of fiber can even decrease blood cholesterol levels.

A dear friend of mine at the ripe old age of 52 was worried about chronic symptoms related to his daily bowel and digestive patterns. For the past few years, he suffered from constipation, irritable bowel and excessive bloating and gas. His family's history of colon cancer and diverticulitis prompted him to put aside his fears and plunge into . . . forgive me . . . the bowels of his concerns.

His fears may have saved his life. The gastroenterogolist removed several precancerous polyps during the colonoscopy. There was one polyp that was surgically removed in the hospital. The experience left him a bit lighter, and he vowed to educate himself about his digestive system.

His tutor was the world wide web where he sought to identify the answers to his health issues. He discovered that a high fiber diet proved to be the most effective and the most tasty in reducing his risk of colon disease.
Is that the earthy aroma of whole bran muffins baking in the oven?

My friend encouraged me to make the appointment with his GI specialist. It was long overdue. I finally admitted that I had been feeling some unwelcomed stirrings in my gut. My father has diverticulitis and my mother had colon cancer at the age of 68. I was determined not to let hereditary influences control my future health.

The results of my colonoscopy proved to be less than satisfactory. Although I did not have to face surgery, two polyps were removed and a diagnosis of diverticulosis was confirmed. The specialist told me that if I had postponed the colonoscopy much longer, I would have needed surgery.

I thought about other baby boomers who might be at the same crossroads; many unaware of their ability to improve their health simply by increasing their daily intake of high fiber foods.

High-Fiber-Health is yours to explore.