Fiber Up to Beat Low-Carb Woes
 

Fiber Up to Beat Low-Carb Woes

Here are a few tips on using it.

by Becky Holman
When it’s time to get lean, that usually means reducing carbohydrates. Most bodybuilders tend to increase protein as they reduce carbs in order to feed muscle tissue and starve fat. The problem is that the fiber that keeps us regular is mostly found in carbohydrate foods.

That’s the reason it’s not uncommon for low-carb dieters to get constipated. Eating less fruit, vegetables and whole-wheat bread means a low fiber intake—and when fiber’s low, you don’t go, at least not as often as you should.

One solution is psyllium-husk powder. It’s the husk of the seed from the psyllium plant, and it’s packed with natural fiber. The husk swells when it comes in contact with water, and that helps push fecal matter through the colon more quickly. People in India and Europe have been using psyllium husk to ease constipation for centuries.

Here are a few tips on using it:
1) If you take capsules, drink plenty of liquid when you do. If you use the powder form, mix in at least eight ounces of liquid.
2) Take it between meals, not immediately before or after, as it may interfere with digestion. Plus, taking it between meals can help alleviate hunger.

—Becky Holman