Live Longer, Eat Fiber

Do you want to live longer? Than eat more fiber.

We've known for some time that having enough fiber in our diets is healthy for us and our hearts, but now we're learning it does a lot more.

And it all has to do with not just staying healthy, but actually living longer. A new government study is showing that more fiber in your diet can also cut your chance of dying from infectious diseases, respiratory illness and even cancers. The most benefits come from those fibers we get from grains.

But guess what, most of us aren't getting nearly enough daily fiber in our current diets. The average American eats only 15 grams a day, but the recommendation is for 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men. So it looks like most of us are only getting about half of what we need to stay healthy.

Since fiber comes from grains like bread, cereals, legumes, fruits and vegetables, it's time to bulk up on these items. And that bulking up could prove to be a lifesaver.