What You should Know about Dietary Fiber!!
Characteristics of Dietary Fiber : Dietary Fiber comprises of the portions of plant-based foods that are indigestible by human digestive enzymes and therefore pass through the digestive tract without being broken down. Dietary Fiber is an important component of an overall healthy diet and is thereby supportive of several bodily functions. However, studies of estimated intakes have revealed that, in the United States, people generally consume less than 50% of the daily recommended dietary fiber intake. Types of Dietary Fiber : Many plant foods contain a mixture of two types of fiber-- Soluble Fiber and Insoluble Fiber. As the name suggests, soluble fibers such as plant pectins and gums are soluble in water and dissolve at least partially. Insoluble Fibers such as cellulose and hemicellulose are not soluble in water and remain intact. Mechanism of Action : Soluble fiber achieves its effects by forming a gel as it absorbs and dissolves in wat...