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Fiber Facts
Why Children Need Fiber, Not Fast Food
By Crystal Patriarche
Soluble fiber also helps to lower blood cholesterol by interfering with bioacids, which contain cholesterol so it is not absorbed in the intestines. It may seem ridiculous to worry about cholesterol in a child, but heart disease actually can start in the younger years. "There is somewhat of an epidemic of childhood obesity in our society and significant health problems can exist because of that," says Dr. Ross. "So having fiber in a child's diet and getting them used to eating those foods is a great benefit."
Insoluble fiber is important for maintaining regularity and digestive tract health. A diet high in insoluble fiber also helps decrease episodes of constipation and gives kids a feeling of fullness so they are not overeating.
"Fiber is particularly important for children's diets because it is essential for optimal bowel movement and health so that the child does not get constipated and then uninterested in eating, which may lead to poor weight gain," says Mahan. "Sometimes constipated children are moody and uncomfortable, just like adults."
A diet high in fiber combined with plenty of water (about a quart a day for most children) can help prevent and relieve constipation.
