Suddenly fiber is the good-health “it” ingredient, but our mothers and grandmothers have known about its benefits for years. For our bodies to function properly, we need two types of fiber, soluble (dissolves in water) and insoluble (does NOT dissolve in water). In my view, aside from lowering the risk of obesity, the main benefit of a diet rich in fiber is that it helps in lowering cholesterol. Here are my favorite foods that are high in fiber, and ways you can enjoy eating them…

1. Whole grains

Whole grains are one of the best ways to get plenty of insoluble fiber. You can find them in whole grain breads, pastas, and even in a lot of breakfast cereals.

2. Oatmeal

Oatmeal isn’t a whole grain, but it is an excellent source of cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber. And it doesn’t have to be boring! There are a lot of toppings you can add to a bowl of hot oatmeal, like raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, and honey. Yum!

3. Brown rice

Brown rice, but not white rice, is also a good source of fiber. I like to add diced tomatoes and chilis to mine, to make it sort of a Spanish rice as a side dish.

4. Cucumbers

One of my favorite summer foods! They always taste green and cool and delicious! Slice them and eat them plain, or add them to a green salad.

5. Carrots, celery

Carrots and their best friend, celery, are great munchies snacks. Dip the carrots in ranch, stuff the celery with peanut butter, or just eat them plain.

6. Tomatoes

Since I was a little girl, I’ve grown tomatoes in a pot on my deck or in my garden every summer. They’re not just high in fiber, they’re also a great source of vitamin C.