Vegetables are a good source of dietary fiber. In addition, vegetables also contain a lot of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which provide many benefits for the health of the body. Studies show that fiber can increase the absorption of vitamins and minerals in the body, potentially increasing daily energy levels.

The fiber contained in vegetables plays a role in the digestive process in the large intestine. Apart from fiber, water consumption and movement also play a significant role. Prof. Ari Fahrial Syam, MD, Ph.D., MMB, FACG, explained that these three elements are necessary for moving feces from the large intestine downwards.

Fruits and vegetables contain indigestible fiber, which absorbs water and expands as it passes through the digestive system. Those can help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel and prevent constipation by having regular bowel movements. The bulking and softening action of insoluble fiber also reduces pressure inside the intestinal tract and may help prevents diverticulosis.

Prof. Ari also reminded us that food hygiene is a factor that must be considered. One of the diseases of the digestive tract due to lack of cleanliness is hemorrhoids. Apart from hemorrhoids, another disease that may arise is constipation. Both diseases can be avoided by consuming lots of vegetables and other fibrous foods.

Source:

Harvard T.H. Chan. (2022). Vegetables and Fruits. Retrieved 26 December 2022. From: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/vegetables-and-fruits/

Nourish by WebMD. (2022). Health and Benefits of Vegetables. Retrieved 26 December 2022. From: https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-vegetables

Tribunhealth.com. (2021). Dokter Jelaskan Pentingnya Sayur untuk Kesehatan Saluran Cerna Bagian Bawah. Retrieved 26 December 2022. From: https://health.tribunnews.com/2021/05/26/dokter-jelaskan-pentingnya-sayur-untuk-kesehatan-saluran-cerna-bagian-bawah

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