Veggies, whole grains, insects: Are bugs a good source of fiber?
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| | Forget kale, and put away the oatmeal — the hot new gut-healthy fiber is chitin from crustaceans and crickets. Or is it ...? | | Well, some new research in mice suggests that this unusual source of fiber enhances digestion and burns through fat. But before you consider dumping shrimp tails into your smoothie, read on to learn whether chitin is safe for humans, how much mice studies can really tell us, and why variety matters most when getting your daily dose of fiber. | | Other creepy, crawly nutrition stories you need today: | | | | Bon appétit,
Tim Snaith
Newsletter Editor, Healthline |  | | Written by Tim Snaith
September 26, 2023 • 3 min read | | | |  | | | Insect fiber may help mice lose weight, but what about humans? | | Chitin — an insoluble fiber in the exoskeletons of insects, crustaceans, and certain fungi — has been found to reduce inflammation and prevent constipation. It can come in different forms and be used as a food additive and in supplements. | | In a recent study at Washington University, mice were fed a high fat diet, but some of them were also given chitin. Within that group, some mice experienced a reaction in which their immune systems increased production of an enzyme called chitinase to break down the chitin — which made their stomachs swell. However, other mice that ate chitin were unable to produce the enzyme and couldn't digest the fiber properly. Those mice gained the least weight and had the lowest body fat. | | The researchers concluded that chitin's indigestibility, coupled with the immune response, helped some mice resist weight gain. They further suggested that a better understanding of this process could be used to treat metabolic disease. | | These are interesting findings, but one expert warned that this research doesn't quite apply to humans. Our gut microbiome and digestive enzymes differ greatly from those of mice. These lab mice had guts that were free of bacteria, very much unlike the human gut. | | Overall, chitin shows potential for aiding in weight management. But until more research backs the benefits and demonstrates its safety in humans, it's premature to think about it as a reliable source of fiber. | | Very high intakes of chitin may potentially trigger inflammatory bowel disease by irritating the digestive tract. But moderate consumption (through supplements) appears safe for most people. A registered dietitian can help determine safe supplemental doses alongside a high fiber diet that includes beans, oats, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for optimal health. | | Tell us: Would you wolf down insects, shells and all, for the nutritional benefits? Let us know by email at nutritionedition@healthline.com! | | | | | Wash up! | | | | | | |  | | Shea Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Set, Jamaican Black Castor Oil | | This shampoo and conditioner set is 17% off at Amazon right now. Both are sulfate-free and contain vitamin E and apple cider vinegar to help strengthen hair and reduce breakage. With 4.5 stars and more than 12,000 reviews, this set is sure to make your hair shiny and strong! | | | | Every product we recommend has gone through Healthline's vetting process. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline is owned by RVO Health. | | | | | | | | | | | | What we're digesting | | 🩹 Spinach extract may help heal diabetic wounds faster. We know spinach is nutritious, but what caused the healing effect in this new study? | | 🌅 When you work out can affect weight management. Might be time to rethink your schedule. | | 🥛 The 12 best protein powders for weight loss. In case you haven't gotten on the ground cricket train yet. | | 🚸 Pediatricians caution against low carb diets for children with diabetes. These diets could hamper a kid's natural growth and development. | | | Thank you for reading! Next time, should you put dairy in your coffee, or does it neutralize the good stuff? | | | Until next time, |  | Take care of yourself, and we'll see
you again soon! | | | | |  | | This edition was powered by | a bowl of blackberries
with all the bugs taken out. | | | | |
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