What Foods are Considered Bulk Foods?

Bulk foods are foods that have a high dietary fiber content. Fiber is the indigestible substance often found in fruits, vegetables and grains. Fiber provides an increased volume digestive matter, which promotes a feeling of fullness. This feeling of fullness can be helpful if you are trying to reduce your caloric intake. Bulk foods also reduce constipation, increase colon health and increase good bacteria in the colon.

Types of Dietary Fiber

There are two types of dietary fiber found in bulk foods-soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and is fermented by colon bacteria, which provides your colon with nutrients and improves your digestive function. Insoluble fiber retains water and softens stool, which helps your body eliminate potential toxins and carcinogens. Both have benefits to improved health and immunity and can promote weight loss.

Bulk Foods and Good Bacteria

The colon is a part of the body that is filled with millions of bacteria. By increasing your fiber intake you can help change the bacteria profile. The fiber in bulk foods helps to increase the number of good colon health. Increasing the number of good colon bacteria produces vitamins and enzymes, trains the immune system to respond to bacteria properly and destroys the harmful colon bacteria.

Top Sources of Bulk

Most plant sources of food have both soluble and insoluble fiber. Apples, oranges, potatoes and oats all have high levels of soluble fiber. Bran, cereal and kidney beans have high levels of insoluble fiber. Prebiotic sources of soluble fiber include onions, garlic, asparagus, artichokes and yams.

How to Eat Bulk Foods

You should aim to eat about 25 to 35 grams of total fiber every day. You should start with a smaller amount and increase slowly to avoid stomach bloating and upset. Eat a variety of bulk foods. Eating vegetables, fruit, oats and grains are all great ways to increase fiber sources.