How should oat bran be introduced into the diet to avoid discomfort? — KOMPAS ZDOROVJA Oat Bran 200 g

Oat bran is a concentrated source of dietary fibre, and the digestive system gets used to it gradually. If you add a large amount straight away, bloating and a feeling of heaviness are possible — not because the product is bad, but because the gut microflora simply does not have time to adjust.

How to introduce it without discomfort:

• Start with a small amount — one or two teaspoons a day, added to porridge, yoghurt or kefir.
• Increase the portion every few days, depending on how you feel, up to the usual serving given on the label — 1–2 tablespoons; it is best not to exceed the recommended daily fibre intake.
• Be sure to drink enough water throughout the day: fibre absorbs liquid, and without it the effect may be the opposite — the contents of the bowel will become firmer rather than softer.
• If you have a sensitive digestion, it is better to add the bran to dishes rather than eat it dry on its own.

The product contains gluten, so it is not suitable for people with coeliac disease or other gluten restrictions, and the bran should not be eaten in case of individual intolerance to oats. If you have a chronic disease of the digestive tract, it is worth consulting a specialist before introducing the product into your diet.