When it comes to eating fiber, just about everyone could do a lot better. In fact, many American adults could double their current fiber intake and still not reach the recommended target of between 25 grams (for women) and 38 grams (for men) each day. “It’s no secret that we need much more fiber in our diet but it is the type of fiber that can make real improvements in our health,” according to Dr. David Topping, Chief Scientist, CSIRO National Research Flagships in Australia. Dr. Topping was the keynote speaker at a 2007 Oldways symposium on the topic of resistant starch.

Health Benefits of Resistant Starch
Increased consumption of natural resistant starch, a type of dietary fiber comfortably fermented in the large intestine, has been shown to: * Reduce calories * Promote fat-burning in humans and reduce body fat in animal studies * Help keep blood sugar and energy on an even keel * Increase insulin sensitivity * Protect colon health as a prebiotic fiber The fermentation of natural resistant starch, which is commonly consumed in foods such as beans, grains, bananas and cold potatoes as well as in a growing number of commercial products, is believed responsible for these digestive and metabolic health benefits.

To Learn More
Click on the titles below to download materials (PDF format) from our September 2007 symposium.

• The New Fiber Story Types and definitions of fiber; how much is recommended; major health benefits
• Resistant Starch FAQ Overview of resistant starch, its many health benefits and its unique advantages over other fiber sources
• Health Benefits and Studies An in-depth look at the five major benefits of resistant starch
• Toolkit for RDs Practical advice on getting more resistant starch in the diet

Email Cynthia Harriman (cynthia@oldwayspt.org) if you have additional questions about resistant starch.