New York Life Extension Center Index Page

Oatmeal? UHG!!! And that's why American's average less than 25% of the USDA minimums of dietary fiber. Why do we need the fiber found in cereals, fruits and veggies? Fiber detoxifies your digestive system with high levels of soluble and insoluble fibers. Fiber literally sweeps your system removing toxins - controlling cholesterol, preventing Cardiovascular problems, Colon Cancer, Hemorrhoids and Diverticulitis, while keeping your stools regular.

SO - cut fast food breakfasts to an occasional treat and try a daily breakfast of cooked cereals like Oatmeal, or dry cereals like Cheerios sweetened with fruit. This is a great way to boost your fiber levels, but still leaves most of us below the fiber minimums. A tasty fix is to sprinkle fiber over your cereal or salads. Fiber is also available as a capsule for those who prefer.

FIBER TIPS - Oatmeal tastes great with cinnamon and applesauce to sweeten it. If you run late mornings microwaving your oatmeal doesn't affect the fiber. If you eat Cheerios, buy the unsweetened variety made of Oats. If you prefer a shake in the morning, adding a scoop of powered fiber to the drink works really well!