Dietary fiber is found in foods that come from plants—fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds, brown rice, and whole grains. It is the part of plant foods that your body cannot digest. Eating more fiber might help you avoid intestinal problems like constipation, diverticulosis, and diverticulitis. It might also lower cholesterol and blood sugar and help you have regular bowel movements.

If you are not used to eating a lot of fiber, add more fiber to your diet slowly to avoid stomach problems. The best source of this fiber is food, rather than dietary supplements. When adding fiber, remember:

• Eat cooked dry beans, peas, and lentils often.
• Leave skins on your fruit and vegetables if possible.
• Choose whole fruit over fruit juice.
• Eat whole-grain breads and cereals.
• Drink lots of fluids to help the fiber move through your intestines.