Dietary fiber helps to slow down carbohydrate absorption, speed the passage of food through the intestinal tract, and it helps prevent constipation. Diets high in fiber have been linked to lowered blood sugar, and the affect seems to be cumulative – it takes a month or more to feel the full effect.

It isn’t just fiber – Diets high in fiber tend to also have more trace elements in them, which help to regulate blood sugar, appetite, and metabolism. A high fiber diet has also been linked to lowered cholesterol and blood pressure, and a lower risk of colon and breast cancer.

High fiber diets tend to contain more whole and fresh foods. Such foods can benefit your health overall, and not just help with diabetes control.

Choose fresh vegetables, eat the skins on your apples and potatoes, and choose whole grains whenever you have the ability to do so. Taking a fiber supplement will help to control constipation, but it won’t give you all the benefits that a diet that is naturally high in fiber will.