What is dietary fiber

Dietary fiber may very well be the best marker for an overall healthy diet. Most high fiber foods are also packed with numerous other healthy substances. If we pay attention to meeting our fiber needs, we are probably doing well with many other nutrients as well.

Dietary fibers are compounds in plant foods, which cannot be digested by human enzymes. This, however, does not mean they do not play a role in our digestion. Dietary fibers are essential for the well-being of the entire body. Research has revealed several positive effects that fiber has.

The exceptional quality of fiber is that foodstuffs forming the foundation of good healthy diet include the highest quantities of fiber. High fiber food contains a lot of vitamins and minerals. Numerous other health providers have also been found in the context of fiber. The attention of modern fiber research is especially focused on these healthy supplements. The healthy combination of fiber and supplements is called as dietary fiber complex. Since fiber is not digested or absorbed in the intestine, it doesn´t increase the energy content of foods.

Soluble and insoluble fiber

Dietary fibers are actually a group of compounds which can be divided into two subcategories - soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves into a gel-like consistency when put into water. This influences, among other things, the function of the stomach and slows down the absorption of energy into the bloodstream. Soluble fiber is most abundant in rye, oats, fruits and vegetables. Insoluble fiber retains its structure. However, it also absorbs water and thereby adds bulk to the food mass. Insoluble fiber carries with it other substances thereby improving the function of the gut. Insoluble fiber is found in the outer layers of cereal grains and in vegetables.