The Effects of Milk and Meat on Fiber Intaking

Dietary fiber has a number of potential health benefits, many related to your digestion. Fiber helps in the treatment of constipation, hemorrhoids and diverticulosis.
Meats, milk and eggs do not contain any fiber and have no affect on your fiber intake. However if you eat a diet high in protein, you likely are not receiving enough fiber in your diet.

Identification
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that your body does not digest. There are two types of dietary fiber, insoluble and soluble. Soluble fiber partially dissolves in water, while insoluble fiber does not dissolve. Although both types of fiber have benefits, insoluble fiber helps to make your stool softer. Fiber is present in plants that you consume as food, such as grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes. Fiber is not found in animal protein such as meat or milk.

Correlation
In a healthy diet, there is no negative correlation between consuming milk and meat and fiber intake. However, diets high in meat and other proteins may not include enough fiber. People who eat less meat consume more legumes, nuts and grains to replace their meat intake, which boosts their fiber intake. Soybeans, black beans and lentils are examples of meat substitutions that are high in fiber. If you eat meat, make sure you leave room on your plate for foods high in fiber.

Benefits In Cancer
Eating a diet high in animal products, especially red meat, can have some potentially serious side effects. Numerous studies have suggested a possible link between eating meat and some types of cancer. Conversely, diets high in fiber may have a protective effect from cancer. A 2006 meta-analysis published in the “International Journal of Cancer” reviewed 15 studies on the negative effects of red meat. Researchers found that red meat and processed meat consumption increased the risk of colon and rectal cancer. Because fiber helps your digestion, it may move any cancer compounds out of your system before they can cause harm.

Other Benefits
High-fiber diets may help to reduce cholesterol levels, according to Colorado State University. Other potential benefits include lowering the risk of heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure and diabetes. A diet high in fiber can help prevent fat absorption, helping you to lose weight. Fiber also helps you to feel full longer and prevents you from overeating. The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that you consume 14 grams of fiber for each 1,000 calories that you eat.