But did you know that even though you make an effort to eat healthy, you may still have trouble reaching your daily fiber requirement?

Many Americans average only half of the recommended 25 to 30 grams of dietary fiber per day, according to the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. Yet the current average daily intake of fiber is 15 grams, as the typical diet includes many foods with high calories, such as white bread, doughnuts, sodas, juices and red meat, to name a few.

It is impractical, however, to think that you can get your daily fiber requirement from food alone, even though you can find it in edible plants, including many fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes. For example, you would need to eat about 10 apples or bananas every day to obtain your daily fiber requirement.

It's a startling statistic that the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates only about five percent of Americans reach the recommended level of dietary fiber requirements. An unfortunate result is a substantial burden on the health care system and on the individual health of Americans. This is known as the "fiber gap" as limited fiber intake has been associated with colon cancer and metabolic syndrome.

The "fiber gap" exists for two reasons: people think fiber supplements are primarily for maintaining a regular digestive system, and traditional forms of fiber supplements on the market, such as powder or capsules, are inconvenient to take.

"Dietary fiber is known for keeping our bodies regular," says Michael Epstein, M.D., FACG, AGAF, a leading gastroenterologist and Chief Medical Advisor of IM HealthScience, LLC.

"Most importantly, it's essential that you get enough fiber in your diet. One way to do that is to supplement your daily intake of dietary fiber with natural, prebiotic fiber supplements. Many of my patients like the convenience and ease of taking the Fiber Choice line of chewable and gummy products."

Fiber Choice - A Convenient, Prebiotic Solution

The Fiber Choice brand of chewables and gummies is made of inulin [pronounced: in-yoo-lin], a natural fiber found in many fruits and vegetables. Inulin works by helping to build healthy, good bacteria in the colon, while keeping food moving through the digestive system. This action has a beneficial and favorable effect of softening stools and improving bowel function.

Research shows that the digestive system does more than digest food; it plays a central role in the immune system. The healthy bacteria that live in the digestive tract promote immune system function, so it's important to nourish the body with fiber. Inulin has secondary benefits, too, of possibly lowering cholesterol, balancing blood chemistry and regulating appetite, which can help reduce calorie intake and play a supporting role in weight management.

But getting enough fiber in one's diet can be a challenge.

So try these tips to increase the amount of fiber in your diet:

•  Make your grains whole. Read labels and swap out conventional grains for whole wheat when buying bread and pasta products, and choose brown rice over white.

•  Make your veggies green. Green vegetables, including beans, spinach, cabbage, and asparagus are good sources of dietary fiber.

•  Go bananas. Many types of fruit are high in fiber, but bananas are an especially rich source. Add mashed bananas to muffins, smoothies, or a bowl of oatmeal as a way to increase fiber intake.

•  Add a supplement. Sometimes eating enough fiber-rich foods is a challenge. So choose a dietary fiber supplement with prebiotic effects, such as the fiber found in Fiber Choice, which has been designed to promote the same health benefits as the fiber found naturally in foods. Fiber Choice chewables or gummies are gluten-free, sugar-free, and taste great in several fruity flavors - and they are easy and convenient to take anywhere and anytime. Among all other fiber products on the market, only Fiber Choice gummies contain pectin, which is derived principally from citrus and apples.

For more information about the benefits of dietary fiber and how fiber supplements can be part of a healthy eating plan, visit www.fiberchoice.com.

The usual adult dosage with Fiber Choice Chewable tablets is two tablets up to three times a day and for Fiber Choice Fiber Gummies is two gummies up to six per day.

The product is available in major retailers, such as CVS/pharmacy, Walmart, Target, and many grocery stores, and can also be purchased online at Amazon.

*THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.

Turns out they know what they're talking about.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nearly half of American adults aged 30 years and older (47.2 percent) suffer from some form of gum disease.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the main threats to dental health, but maintaining a healthy mouth goes beyond the benefits of a bright smile.

Gum disease is a chronic, inflammatory condition, and recent studies suggest that gum disease and tooth decay may be associated with an increased risk of other inflammatory conditions, including heart attacks and strokes if left untreated.

The CDC describes common warning signs of gum disease, including bad breath, gums that are red, swollen, bleeding, or tender; pain when chewing; loose or sensitive teeth; receding gums; change in bite; and change in the fit of partial dentures. Additional factors that increase the risk of gum disease include smoking, diabetes, stress, and poor oral hygiene.

That said, most people can improve their dental hygiene and reduce their risk for developing gum disease by following a few simple steps:

- Brush. Brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste. Pick a toothbrush style that fits your mouth and feels comfortable, and you will be more likely to use it. If your teeth are sensitive or you want them to be whiter, look around; there's a toothpaste for that.

- Floss. Floss your teeth once a day. Dental floss is available in a variety of widths and thicknesses, although some people prefer disposable flossers, which are often easier for children to use.

- Rinse. Oral rinses play an important role in a dental health routine. Gum disease is caused by bacteria, but an oral rinse formulated with bacteria-targeting ingredients can help keep gum disease at bay.

Healthy Gums Oral Rinse from TheraBreath contains cetylpyridinium chloride, an ingredient approved by the FDA and clinically proven to kill the germs linked to gum disease.

"Gum disease is more serious than people think. It starts out with just bleeding and sensitive gums, but in its advanced stages, it can cause tooth loss," says Dr. Harold Katz, founder and chief researcher for TheraBreath.

For more information about keeping your mouth healthy and reducing your risk of gum disease, go to therabreathhealthygums.com.

Healthy Gums Oral Rinse fromTheraBreath is available at Walmart.

Travel with time changes can be especially disruptive to sleep, as can daylight savings time, according to Randy Bird, a nutritionist at the University of Virginia.

One tasty and effective way to improve sleep quality: tart cherries.

Cherries contain melatonin, the hormone that regulates the sleep cycle. Consuming cherries or tart cherry juice can contribute to healthy sleep quality that includes adequate sleep duration and minimal disturbances, Bird says. In a study conducted by Louisiana State University, participants who consumed 4 ounces of tart cherry juice one hour prior to bedtime increased nightly sleep by an average of 84 minutes.

Cheribundi tart cherry juices feature a blend of Montmorency and Morello (tart) cherries. The juices are created by a process designed to retain a high level of antioxidants, so the products not only improve sleep, but also help reduce muscle soreness and boost immunity.

Visit Cheribundi.com for more information about how tart cherries can improve sleep and health.

"Ultimately, through food, exercise and lifestyle changes, I was able to successfully turn my health around," shares Mullen, who says that Cheribundi has been but one of the keys to improving his RA.

"Whether I'm spending the day in the kitchen or on my bike, I drink Cheribundi along with other 'Hero Foods' to reduce soreness, boost my immune system and amplify my overall health."

Cheribundi tart cherry juice has the highest amount of antioxidants of any juice on the market.

Chef Mullen opened his first solo Spanish restaurant, Tertulia, in Manhattan in 2011. Two years later, he opened El Colmado. In 2017, he released his latest cookbook, "Real Food Heals," hoping to inspire others to take control of their diet and general health."As someone with RA, I'm constantly exploring the impact food has on our overall wellness. Cheribundi understands the importance of nutrition … and like me, they believe in helping people everywhere simply live healthier."

Cheribundi, Almond, and Coconut Smoothie

Ingredients:

8 oz of Cheribundi 100 percent Tart Cherry juice

6 oz of coconut water

? an avocado

1 cup frozen wild blueberries

1 TBSP unsweetened almond butter

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a powerful blender and process until smooth. Serve immediately or save in a glass jar in the fridge for later.

However, only certain products are truly effective at promoting the deepest, most restful sleep needed for no morning drowsiness. The deeper the sleep, the better for the restoration of your mind and body.

During sleep, your brain goes through five stages that repeat in approximately 90-minute cycles. These stages are divided into non-REM and REM sleep.

Non-REM: The first stage of non-REM (non-Rapid Eye Movement) sleep starts when you first fall asleep (stage 1) and progresses through stage 2 of light sleep.

Stages 3 and 4 are the deepest and most restorative times of sleep, when your heart rate slows, your muscles and skin heal and grow, and your immune system recharges.

REM: REM, or Rapid Eye Movement, is the shallow sleep that occurs as the fifth and last stage of a sleep cycle. REM sleep is associated with dreams, learning, and memory.

Some sleep aid products, such as melatonin, focus on sleep quantity. While these types of products can make you sleepy, many people who have trouble sleeping can't relax their brains into deep sleep. Certain amino acids, however, such as glycine, can help.

Glysom is a unique dietary supplement that contains glycine. Unlike some other glycine supplements on the market, Glysom has been well studied as a sleep supplement to show that it is effective, helping the brain to relax into the deep sleep cycle.

Data on Glysom have shown that the product can help promote deeper and more restful non-REM sleep without such side effects as daytime sleepiness.

Glysom is not an injection or pill; it is available in small packets as a lemon-flavored powder to help make it easy to take.

For more than a decade, Glysom was only available from health care professionals, but it is now available directly to consumers.

Glysom is produced by Ajinomoto, a global leader in the manufacture and distribution of amino acid products.

For more information about Glysom and how to improve sleep quality, visit glysom.com.

(NewsUSA) - A non-surgical technique for lifting double chins, reducing puffiness around the eyes, and improving the appearance of wrinkles is now available in the form of an easy-to-use home kit called The Face Wrap. (www.facewrap.com).

Previously available as a salon-only treatment, The Face Wrap lifts and tightens drooping areas on the forehead, face, and under the chin by firmly wrapping them up in a mineral-soaked, non-allergenic "face wrap" constructed of non-latex elasticized cotton fabric.

"The liquid minerals are the secret to the Face Wrap," says Sarah Bolger, The Face Wrap's spokesperson. "The minerals, which are all-natural, draw out impurities from the complexion while giving the skin a firmed and tighter look on the outside and a rejuvenated feel to the underlying tissues."

Bolger says the all-natural, one-hour facial beautification procedure is safe and painless.

"Our Face Wrap kits have wrapped many thousands of faces, and we've learned how to produce wonderful changes," says Bolger. "For those looking for an alternative to cosmetic surgery, wrapping your face is an easier way to reduce double chins and puffiness, lift and tighten the skin and enhance your own natural beauty."

Bolger also recommends exfoliating before using to allow the minerals to absorb better, and exercising the face daily with a few simple exercises.

Working women want to look their best - especially after 50. But let's face it, most working women find it difficult to carve out an hour or two a week for visits to the day spa. That's the appeal of the home kit. The one-hour treatment can be done at home while reading or on the computer or while resting.

Women generally look five- to ten years younger after a series of three to six treatments. Most people are surprised to see their cheekbones and jaw bones again!

Visit www.facewrap.com for more information. The kit costs $139 and contains enough minerals for at least 20 treatments, or about $7 per treatment. A lot less than $80-plus for various salon treatments.

Drinking eight-ounces of Florida Orange Juice is the perfect way to start off the weekend - either during breakfast or by adding it to your favorite Cinco de Mayo or Derby cocktail.

The popular refrigerator staple is known for its "Amazing 5" benefits: no added sugar, vitamin C, potassium, folate and great taste; and an 8-ounce serving of 100-percent orange juice helps Americans meet their recommended daily fruit intake.

The vitamin C, potassium and folate in Florida Orange Juice offer several nutritional benefits for your body, such as helping support healthy skin and bones, proper muscle function and red blood cells. It also contains only natural- occurring sugar straight from the orange and is different from other orange juices in that it comes directly from the sandy soil of Florida, making it not only nutritious but also giving it a one-of-a-kind taste - like pure sunshine in a glass!

While fueling your fun with the "Amazing 5" found in Florida Orange Juice, you can also help keep your body hydrated, thanks to its electrolytes, which can help you to keep going strong throughout the day. Even on your routine weekdays, 100-percent orange juice is a great way to increase your vitamin and nutrient intake for all your activities - whether it's a pre-soccer practice snack for your kids or incorporating it into delicious recipes throughout the week, such as smoothies, salad dressings and make-ahead dinners.

To join the celebrations on May 4, consider trying a festive recipe, such as the Florida Orange Margarita, which is the perfect blend of sweet and sour, by visiting FloridaJuice.com, or follow @FloridaOrangeJuice on Instagram and Facebook and share the way Florida Orange Juice fuels your fun by using #NationalOJDay.

For more information about the great taste and health benefits of Florida Orange Juice, visit Floridajuice.com.

The Next Generation Test for Prostate Cancer 

While Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is currently the most used screening test for prostate cancer, it is widely recognized that PSA results can indicate the possibility of prostate cancer when none is present.

The Prostate Health Index (phi) is an FDA approved blood test that can help differentiate prostate cancer from benign prostate conditions in men with elevated PSA.

The Prostate Health Index is fast becoming the "second opinion" for men with elevated PSA who want more information before deciding to move forward with a prostate biopsy.

The Prostate Health Index utilizes three different PSA markers (PSA, freePSA, and p2PSA) as part of a sophisticated algorithm to more reliably determine the probability of cancer in patients with elevated PSA levels and can help men and their physicians decide if a prostate biopsy is indicated.

Like many men who are told they have an elevated PSA, Jim Robinson was concerned about prostate cancer. "I certainly didn't want to delay treatment if I had prostate cancer, but I was also worried about having a prostate biopsy if I didn't need one." Jim's story is not an unusual one, after all, studies have shown that approximately 70 percent of men with an elevated PSA who have a biopsy do not have cancer.

In addition to prostate cancer, a number of benign (not cancerous) conditions can cause a man's PSA level to rise. The most frequent benign prostate conditions that cause an elevation in PSA level are prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (enlargement of the prostate.

The Prostate Health Index is included in the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guideline for Prostate Cancer Early Detection as a blood test to improve specificity for prostate cancer detection. The Prostate Health Index is indicated for men age 50 years and older with an elevated PSA between 4ng/ml and 10ng/ml. 

Patients Can Order The Test Online 

Men who want a greater say in their treatment and want the Prostate Health Index test done at their request, can now initiate a physician order online through a telehealth physician network that can address a patient's immediate need to get tested and to help guide their management. Patients are advised to share their test report with their regular healthcare professionals so that results can be integrated into their treatment plans.

Learn more about the Prostate Health Index at www.mycancerrisk.info/phi or by calling 1-855-420-7140 ext 0.

As Americans strive to satisfy their appetite for the next nutritional trend, malt is a resounding reminder that sometimes our ancestors truly do know best.

Malt is nostalgically remembered as a cornerstone of American culture, conjuring fond memories of vintage "malt shops" or a delicious glass of Ovaltine™ malted milk. But, what exactly is malt?

Malt is basically sprouted barley. By sprouting the barley, the grain's enzymes are unlocked with only water and heat in an ancient, natural process that releases the whole grain's nutritional power. Malt can be further processed to produce liquid or powder sweeteners called malt extracts that are used in beverages (beer, malted shakes, energy drinks), baked goods (cakes, pretzels, breads), cereals and snacks (protein bars, yogurts, confections), and other foods.

Malt Extract's Natural Health Benefits

* Athletic Recovery: Today, malt extract is drawing renewed attention as a naturally-functional ingredient that packs a host of powerful intrinsic health benefits - one reason that, among other uses, athletes are increasingly relying on malt extract-based beverages to replenish and recover.

* Boosts Happiness: Malt extract might actually make you happy! Malt extract contains Hordenine, a plant-based, naturally occurring compound that has been found in scientific studies to lift your spirits. Hordenine was shown to activate the dopamine D2 receptor, the brain's reward center, which causes this "feel-good" effect. It has also been reported to sharpen mental focus and heighten energy levels.

* Sweetener with Substance: Malt extract is not an empty sugar. When used as a sweetener, malt extract is a functional ingredient that serves as a source of antioxidants, essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals, and is made with whole grains. As an added benefit, malt extract has a significantly lower glycemic index than table sugar.

* Supports Digestive Health: Malt extract can be good for your gut. Malt extract is a rich source of soluble fiber, which helps improve digestion by optimizing good bacteria and minimizing bad bacteria. Studies show malt extract facilitates the growth of probiotic cultures that can enhance digestive health by supporting the good bacteria that lines the gut. This can help prevent illness and promote essential nutrient absorption, enhancing overall health.

* Promotes Heart Health: Malt extract is shown to reduce the risk of heart problems by helping to lower cholesterol. A heart-healthy mix, malt contains fiber, potassium, folate, and vitamin B6, which together lower cholesterol and decrease the risk of cardiac disease. Its dietary fiber helps reduce insulin activity and increases cholesterol absorption from the gut and encourages cholesterol breakdown. Studies indicate this promotes lower cholesterol by reducing plaque formation.

* Antioxidants Galore: Malt extract packs more than 5 times the antioxidant power of fresh broccoli and nearly 50 percent more than blueberries. It is an abundant source of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, dietary silicon (supports bone health), B complex vitamins and micro minerals. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants has been shown to strengthen heart health, support anti-aging, and lower risk of infection and some forms of cancer.

"Malt extract is emerging as a naturally-functional ingredient that consumers should look for in many of their favorite foods and beverages," says Amy Targan, president, Malt Products Corporation.

"Today's health-conscious consumer demands a diet enriched with ingredients that provide optimal flavor and nutritional function to complement their lifestyle."

Companies such as Malt Products Corporation provide all natural, non-GMO certified malt extracts to a multitude of leading bakery, confectionary, beverage, snack food, and cereal manufacturers nationwide.

ALS is a disease that makes the nerve cells stop working and die. The nerves lose the ability to trigger specific muscles, which causes the muscles to become weak and leads to paralysis. Unfortunately, about 80 percent of people who get ALS die within two to five years of diagnosis.

After Mr. Alderman's diagnosis, he became determined that ALS might eventually take his life, but it would not destroy it.

For the past 18 years, Alan has been fighting against ALS. He has been active in fundraising, advocacy, and raising awareness for ALS. This winter, he rowed 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean in a rowboat to help raise funds and awareness for the organization Row4ALS.

While most of us don't want to face the ocean in a rowboat, what can we do to help fight ALS?

The National ALS Registry helps gather information from people like Mr. Alderman who are living with this terrible disease. The National ALS Registry is the only population-based registry in the U.S. that collects information to help scientists learn more about who gets ALS and its causes. Researchers and scientists from all around the world can access the Registry data.

During the seven years of the National ALS Registry's existence, researchers have learned a lot about ALS. But there is still a long way to go to understanding this disease. The Registry relies upon the participation of the people around the U.S. living with ALS.

The Registry has found that over 16,000 persons with ALS live in the United States. In addition, the Registry is funding research to find out what may cause ALS, such as exposures to environmental toxins and pollution, genetic links, and certain medical conditions or medications.

While we don't know the causes of this disease, we do know that to get a full picture of this disease - and to understand its possible causes, and potential treatments - the Registry needs as many patients as possible to register. All of the data are confidential; researchers do not get patients' personal information.

Every year, nearly 5,000 more people are diagnosed with this terrible disease. Everyone's story is different, and everyone's piece of the puzzle is essential. When patients join the Registry, it helps give researchers more information. This could lead to a better understanding of the causes of ALS, and could help offer a better future for people with the disease.

If you or someone you care about has ALS, please consider learning more about the ALS Registry by visiting www.cdc.gov/als.