The good; Fiber is a nutrient present in plant foods, the part that the human body cannot digest. In addition to filling your stomach so you're satisfied after a meal, fiber might also reduce the risk of certain health problems. The Harvard School of Public Health notes that fiber can lower cholesterol, which helps protect you from heart disease. Getting plenty of fiber in your diet might also lower your chances of developing type-2 diabetes, constipation and certain types of cancer, such as prostate and breast cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Things to watch; Watch the total sugar content, some bran muffins have extra added sugars.