6 Ways Dietary Fiber Fuels Beneficial Bacteria & Keeps Us Regular

But with all the buzz surrounding gut health, it can be hard to tell a trend from an evidence-based practice. Many consider probiotics and fermented foods to be the pinnacle of GI health, but those of us who have struggled with digestive issues, mood, and a suboptimal immune response know firsthand that promoting a healthy gut takes more effort and intention than drinking a daily kombucha. That's where fiber comes into play. The underrated carb may not spend much time in the spotlight, but it's a regular figure in gut health research. Here are six science-backed benefits to know about.

Like a luxury car, the colonies of microbes in your gut need plenty of premium-grade "fuel" (i.e., prebiotic fibers) to help them grow and thrive.

Certain fibers (such as key prebiotic sources) promote gut health and resilience by increasing short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production1 (unique bioactive gut metabolites and a form of postbiotics). Generated from fiber fermentation, SCFAs provide an energy source for gut and colon cells, modulate intestinal pH and immune response2, and help maintain gut-lining integrity.

Consuming guar bean fiber, the leading organic fiber featured in mindbodygreen's organic fiber+ with prebiotic support formula, has been shown to support butyrate-producing bacteria—which, in turn, can help strengthen the integrity and resilience of the gut lining.*

Consuming enough of both types of fiber is absolutely essential to maintain a healthy digestive system and keep things "moving along."

In another study from Nutrition Research, green kiwifruit (another premium plant fiber in mbg's organic fiber+ with prebiotic support was found to significantly increase daily bowel movements6.* Whether you're upping your daily fiber intake with fiber-rich plant foods or a quality supplement (both are useful and synergistic strategies), it's clear that getting sufficient fiber promotes regularity.* 

All dietary fiber (but especially prebiotics) and probiotics are integral in promoting gut-immune health by helping maintain gut lining function and integrity, promoting SCFA production, and supporting gut microbiome abundance and diversity.

In addition to packing your plate full of fiber-rich foods, a high-quality daily fiber supplement like mbg's organic fiber+ with prebiotic support is an easy way to help ensure that you and your family are bridging the fiber gap each and every day. Featuring a USDA-certified organic, vegan blend of soluble, insoluble, and prebiotic plant fibers from clean and science-backed sources (i.e., organic guar bean, mushrooms, and green kiwifruit), plus a targeted probiotic strain, this plant-powered formula helps nourish your gut barrier and microbiome, support digestion, and promote regularity.*