What are the signs of low fiber?
- Feeling constipated or bloated after meals
- You have hemorrhoids
- Constant feelings of hunger
- Blood sugar fluctuations
- High cholesterol levels
- Chronic fatigue or low energy
- Inflammation
Feeling constipated or bloated after meals
Having bowel movements either three times a day or three times a week is considered the norm. If you're experiencing such less than thrice a week, and your stool seems hard and dry, it’s a sign that you’re constipated. While constipation can be caused by a wide variety of reasons, it’s most often due to lack of fiber – the nutrient which helps your stool absorb more water and pass smoothly through your digestive system. Without it, you may feel “blocked up.” Further, you may also be bloated after meals if you are fiber deficient, maybe because your body retains too much water and is not able to pass it on through your bowel movements.You have hemorrhoids
As a consequence of difficult bowel movements (which is likely when you’re constipated), you might also develop hemorrhoids. These are swollen, displaced veins located around your rectum and anus. Hemorrhoids tend to cause some pain, discomfort, and slight bleeding when you are experiencing bowel movements. Increasing your fiber intake can help soften your stool and pass quicker through the digestive tract, with less strain on the veins.
Constant feelings of hunger
You just ate a full meal, yet you become hungry just an hour later — it may be a sign of low fiber levels in your diet. Without fiber, your stomach empties itself much faster, which may trigger feelings of hunger. Fiber is a dense nutrient which takes a while for your stomach to break down. Additionally, it absorbs lots of water, contributing to its weight. So when you’re eating enough fiber, you’re likely to feel full for much longer after meals. This effect can also help you eat more efficiently and manage your weight.Blood sugar fluctuations
