What are the health benefits of soluble and insoluble fiber?
Studies show that soluble fiber (including clinical research on barley soluble fiber) is effective in lowering blood cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease. Soluble fiber has also been shown to be beneficial in slowing the absorption of sugar, which, for people with diabetes, may help decrease the need for insulin. Soluble fiber may also help reduce the risk of developing type 2 or non-insulin-dependent diabetes. Studies show that insoluble fiber may be beneficial in lowering the risk of disorders such as hemorrhoids irritable bowel syndrome and certain cancers such as colon cancer. Insoluble fiber is the type of fiber that helps the human body maintain more regular bowel function. Can dietary fiber help control weight? Eating a high-fiber diet may be beneficial in weight control as well. High-fiber foods generally require more chewing time, which gives the body more time to register that its no longer hungry. This in turn may lessen the likelihood of overeating. How much dietary
