5 Health Benefits of Resistant Starch
If you’ve been trying to make better food choices, you might be used to hearing about all of the problems that starchy, carb-laden foods pose for wellness. So it can be a bit strange to hear that there are health benefits to resistant starches.
This often-overlooked dietary component holds a plethora of benefits for our overall health and well-being. From nurturing a thriving gut microbiome to aiding in weight management, the virtues of resistant starch are garnering attention from health enthusiasts and researchers alike.
Understanding Resistant Starch
Resistant starch is a type of starch that resists digestion in the small intestine, making its way to the large intestine. There, it ferments and feeds good bacteria in the intestinal tract. Unlike other starches, which are readily broken down into glucose and absorbed into the bloodstream, resistant starch behaves more like dietary fiber, exerting its effects primarily in the colon.
Resistant starches come in a variety of forms. They can be found naturally in whole grains and green bananas. Retrograded starch can be created when foods like potatoes, rice, and pasta are cooked and then cooled. They can also be modified from natural starches like wheat.
Benefits of Resistant Starch for Health
- Improved digestive health and nurturing the gut biome: Resistant starch acts as a prebiotic, nourishing beneficial bacteria in the gut and promoting a healthy balance of gut microbiota. This can enhance digestive health, reduce inflammation, and support immune function.
- Improved colon health: Dietary fibers, like resistant starches, feed beneficial bacteria that then produce compounds like butyrate, which has been suggested as having a role in the prevention and inhibition of colorectal cancer.
- Weight Management: Unlike simple carbohydrates, which can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels and subsequent crashes, resistant starch has a minimal impact on blood glucose. By promoting feelings of fullness and satiety, it helps curb appetite and reduce overall caloric intake.
- Enhanced Insulin Sensitivity: Some studies suggest that resistant starch may improve insulin sensitivity, helping the body better regulate blood sugar levels. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.
- Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Diets high in resistant starch are associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. By promoting a healthy gut microbiome and supporting metabolic health, resistant starch contributes to overall disease prevention.
Learn more about the resistant wheat starch in Hero Bread.
