What is Insoluble Fiber?
We’ve all heard that we should get plenty of fiber in our diet. One of the types of fiber to add to your diet is insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber is found in many types of plants, and can be a healthful addition to your diet. Insoluble fiber, plant fiber that the human digestive system cannot process, does not break down as it passes through the digestive tract. Insoluble fiber can be beneficial in many ways. A diet high in fiber, of both soluble and insoluble varieties, tends to lead to improved health in a variety of categories. Most people associate insoluble fiber with regularity. Insoluble fiber tends to bunch up in the digestive tract, and because it is not broken down and stays in solid form, it helps produce solid, well-sized stool. Insoluble fiber also helps the stool retain more water. Solid, larger stool moves through the intestines more easily, and the higher water content makes regular bowel movements less of a strain. Some health professionals believe that insoluble fiber
Insoluble fiber helps your stomach by helping to push through fecal matter and other material in your digestive tract. What other material you might ask? You never know, I included that just in case… 😉 Back on track… Insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in water like soluble fiber does, instead it holds water creating bulkier and softer stools. The reason it cannot be digested by the human body is because we lack the enzyme to break the components down. Insoluble fiber contains three components: • Cellulose • Hemicellulose • Lignin Here is a list food sources that contain insoluble fiber: • Bran • Nuts • Seeds • Popcorn • Fruit skins • Brown rice • Potato skins • Whole-grain products • Most vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables. There are many benefits to eating a healthy amount of insoluble fiber and dietary fiber in general, some of them are: • Alleviates constipation 1 • Reduces appetite 2 • Promotes regular bowel movements through faster transit time3 • Relieves symptoms a
