Kellogg’s All-Bran: A Balanced Fiber Review

I’ve been using Kellogg’s All-Bran for about a year and it’s sort of changed my life . No more “ difficult “ loo visits and it seems to balance my diet well . I’ve recommended it to many clients and they all report the same thing . However , there us some bad press about using wheat fibre , so I thought I’d write up this balanced review .

I hope it’s useful

All Bran is a highly concentrated source of dietary fiber, primarily derived from wheat bran. It is specifically marketed to support digestive health.

1. High Fiber Content:

• All-Bran is exceptionally high in fiber, containing approximately 12-13g of fiber per 40g serving, which covers a significant portion of the daily recommended intake (25g for women and 38g for men).

• The primary fiber type is insoluble fiber, which aids in bulking up stool and promoting regular bowel movements.

2. Nutritional Profile:

• In addition to fiber, All-Bran is often fortified with essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, contributing to overall nutritional adequacy.

3. Low Fat and Calories:

• It is a low-calorie food, making it a suitable option for weight management when paired with a balanced diet.

Good Points About Wheat Fiber

1. Promotes Digestive Health:

• Wheat fiber is effective in relieving constipation and maintaining digestive regularity, as it absorbs water and adds bulk to stool.

2. Supports Weight Management:

• Foods high in fiber, such as All-Bran, promote satiety, which can reduce overeating.

3. May Reduce Disease Risk:

• A high-fiber diet has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers (e.g., colorectal cancer).

4. Convenient and Easy to Use:

• All-Bran is ready to eat and can be easily added to meals, such as smoothies or yogurt, making it an effortless way to boost fiber intake.

Bad Points About Wheat Fiber

1. Digestive Discomfort:

• Insoluble fiber, such as that in All-Bran, can cause bloating, gas, or abdominal discomfort, especially if consumed in large amounts or introduced too quickly into the diet.

2. Phytates in Wheat Bran:

• Wheat bran contains phytates, which can bind to minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium, potentially reducing their absorption. This may be a concern for individuals relying heavily on wheat fiber for nutrition.

3. Gluten Content:

• Wheat bran is unsuitable for people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, as it contains gluten.

4. Taste and Texture:

• The taste and coarse texture of All-Bran may not appeal to everyone, and some may find it unpalatable without additional ingredients like fruits or milk.

if there isnt any in your local shop, you can check out amazon

5. Added Sugar in Some Versions:

• Certain varieties of All-Bran may contain added sugars, which can reduce its health benefits if consumed excessively. Always check the nutrition label.

Kimchi.

About six months ago , the light of my life discovered Korean films on Netflix. Since then I’ve been bombarded with Korean history , Korean romance , Korean police dramas , Korean “ grim reapers “( it’s “ a thing “) Korean zombies and even Korean prison dramas .

The one theme they all have in common , is a focus on food ! In particular , they all mention kimchi . Eating it , making it , fermenting it , and serving it to others!

So what is Kimchi? Its highly nutritious and boasts numerous health benefits, thanks to its ingredients and fermentation process. Here are some reasons why kimchi is good for you!!

1. Rich in Probiotics

• Fermented foods like kimchi contain beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus. These probiotics support gut health, improve digestion, and strengthen the immune system. Woo hoo!

2. Packed with Nutrients

• Kimchi is made with nutrient-rich ingredients like napa cabbage, radishes, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. It provides vitamins A, B, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like calcium and potassium. All welcome in todays nutrient deprived diet

3. High in Antioxidants

• The vegetables and spices in kimchi are loaded with antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and combat oxidative stress.

4. Supports Weight Management

• Kimchi is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a filling and healthy addition to meals. Some studies suggest probiotics in kimchi may support weight loss.

5. Promotes Heart Health

• Kimchi can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve blood pressure, likely due to its high fiber content and the presence of garlic, which contains allicin and selenium.

6. Boosts Immunity

• The probiotics and nutrients in kimchi strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight infections and illnesses.

7. May Improve Skin Health

• Kimchi’s antioxidants and probiotics can help maintain healthy skin by reducing inflammation and promoting good gut health, which is linked to clearer skin.

8. Supports Mental Health

• Gut health is closely linked to mental health. Probiotics in kimchi may positively influence mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Kimchi is often high in sodium, so individuals with high blood pressure or salt sensitivities should consume it in moderation.

• If you’re new to fermented foods, start with small portions to avoid digestive discomfort.

Kimchi is not only delicious but also a powerful functional food that can contribute to overall health when included in a balanced diet.

I’d say , give it a go . I should say that I’ve always like pickles so trying this was fun . My partner hates pickles , so this is all a bit traumatic for her !

I bought mine from the “ loon fung” store in Stratford but there are lots of options on Amazon