It’s no secret that most people don’t get enough fiber in their diet. Making nutritious food choices and preparing high-fiber recipes can help boost fiber and improve health. High-fiber recipes include whole grains, whole fruits and vegetables (with the skins on), beans and nuts.

Fiber is important for a variety of reasons. Fiber helps maintain regularity and bowel health, supports heart health and stabilizes blood-sugar levels. Eating high-fiber foods also supports healthy weight management by making the body feel full and satisfied longer than low-fiber foods. As a bonus, adding high-fiber foods will increase the flavor and variety of a person’s diet.

When adding high-fiber recipes to a diet plan, health experts recommend a gradual increase of fiber to allow the body’s digestive tract time to adjust.