With the passing of the low-fat, low-carb, and low-calorie diets, the trend today seems to be toward whole grains. Almost every food brand now has a product that is "100% whole wheat" or "100% whole grain." And for good reason. Research has shown that a diet high in fiber leaders to healthier cardiovascular health and reduced incidences of cancer.

Some of the best sources of dietary fiber (fiber that cannot be digested by the body) are found in nature.

BERRIES
Almost all berries are high in fiber and good for your health. Whether it be blackberries, blueberries, strawberries or raspberries, all should be a part of a high-fiber diet. Sprinkle some on whole grain cereal or yogurt, or even eat them by themselves for a healthy snack.

APPLES
Maybe Benjamin Franklin was right. An apple a day may truly keep the doctor away. Apples are naturally high in fiber and provide benefits to the immune system. Be sure to keep the skin on, however. The skin provides the highest fiber content of the apple.

PEARS
Just like its apple counter-part, pears are also a great source of dietary fiber. As with the apple, the skin provides the most fiber, so be sure to include the skin when choosing a pear as a part of your diet.

VEGETABLES
Almost all vegetables are high in fiber. Foods like carrots, corn, broccoli, and peas should round out a day's nutrients. Beans of almost any type provide lots of fiber. Red kidney beans, green beans, garbanzo beans, and black beans can be added to almost any salad or rice for extra flavor and fiber. One vegetable that is surprisingly lacking in fiber? Lettuce.

BANANAS
What food could be easier to eat than a banana? It comes wrapped in its own wrapper, never needs washing, and is the perfect size portion. Bananas are a high-fiber food. Eat one alone as a snack or add one to whole grain cereal for an extra fiber kick in the morning. An extra benefit to parents of finicky children, bananas are a favorite for kids. While you may have a hard time convincing your toddler to eat kidney beans or broccoli for lunch, bananas are an easy sell.

There are many ways to add extra fiber in your diet with little effort. While fiber in cereals, breads, and crackers should certainly not be discouraged, don't forget the fiber found in nature. With its high nutrient value and health benefits, fiber found in fruits and vegetables is nature's perfect gift for wellness.

Learn more about this author, Starla Ross.
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