Fiber is fabulous. You already eat it to stay regular and to feel fuller longer. Now there’s another reason to eat more fiber: gut protection.

Research shows that fiber-rich foods help derail illness-causing bacteria that may otherwise have you running for the bathroom. In a lab study, researchers exposed a variety of foods to several strains of E. coli and Salmonella. The results? The bacteria adhered to fibrous foods – like pumpkin, artichoke, and flax seed. A good thing, because if the bacteria latches on to intestinal tissues instead, it might have some gut-churning consequences.

Fun fiber facts? Here are a couple more fabulous fiber finds: fiber fuels weight loss. Because it digests slowly, it puts off hunger pangs. Also, fiber may lower the odds of endometrial cancer by as much as 20 percent. So in addition to washing your hands regularly (after using the rest-room and before you prepare and eat food), add fiber to your diet for better health.

“Health Tip of The Day brought to you by Doctors Hospital, keeping you and your family healthy for life.”