A strong intestinal flora and a good regularity of biological rhythms are the first step for a healthy body. In this regard, dietary fibers are useful tools for maintaining the levels of bacterial flora and food transit in the body. Furthermore, their composition also makes them effective in controlling cholesterol and sugars, counteracting their absorption in the body. Yet, in these intestinal health allies, an acid component is hidden that could become harmful for those who want to prevent bone disorders or suffer from them.
Many take them for digestion and cholesterol without knowing they could be terrible for the bones
We have extensively talked about the benefits of taking fiber regularly and responsibly, perhaps through lesser known methods. For example, very few people know about this little-known flour but it is a natural killer of bad cholesterol. The polysaccharides of which the fiber is composed, such as lignin, cellulose and beta-glucans, make it indigestible by intestinal enzymes, stimulating its regularity. They also boast the characteristic of having no calories, if not those brought by a light fermentation of the intestinal bacteria. These are all characteristics that lead to a daily consumption of fiber, which can be found in legumes, vegetables or dried fruit. In this regard, almonds are precious because a handful at breakfast is a faithful ally of cardiovascular health and intestinal flora.
Fiber, however, if consumed in excessive doses, or in conjunction with certain diseases, could be harmful. In fact, many take them for digestion and cholesterol without knowing that they could be terrible for the bones due to phytic acid.
Calcium-eating acid
Although the positive effects of the fibers are evident, they contain phytic acid, a substance considered as an antinutrient. This acid, if taken in excessive quantities, is able to inhibit the absorption of mineral salts and vitamins, creating with them the so-called “insoluble bonds”.
In particular, selenium, iron, zinc but above all calcium, are the minerals of which phytic acid hinders the absorption, giving rise to side effects such as weakening of the bones, up to osteoporosis due to calcium and vitamin D deficiency. In addition, due to the intervention of the acid on the iron, this could lead to the manifestation of phenomena such as anemia.
So, as we remember every time, it is good to get adequate information on what is best to eat and what could harm us through the doctor.
One last piece of advice, phytic acid is particularly concentrated in the bran while it is less abundant in slow-rising bread or sourdough bread.