Lentils help feed good gut bacteria

Not all dietary fibre is equal: getting it from wheat, lentils and artichokes is more beneficial for our gut health than other sources, according to a study by researchers at King’s College London.

they analysed results from 64 studies and found a certain type of fibre, known as prebiotic fibre, in these specific foods (as well as onions, chicory and beans) had a more significant impact on ‘ good’ gut bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, compared to general types of fibre in foods such as brown rice, fruit, and potatoes.

Prebiotic fibre is used by the body to feed the good bacteria, reported the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.