There are two basic types of dietary fibers and each has different effect in the digestive tract. Dietary fibers are the ones that we eat and are mostly found in plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. Fibers are natural components of plants that the body cannot digest. However, they still play an important part in a healthy diet. Studies have shown that a high-fiber diet can prevent or treat certain digestive problems like constipation, hemorrhoids, and diverticulosis.
The two major types of dietary fibers are the soluble and insoluble fibers. Soluble fibers easily dissolve in water. It takes on a soft gel-like texture in the intestines making the stools softer, which can prevent constipation. Sources of soluble fibers include beans, oat bran, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Insoluble fibers, on the other hand, pass through the digestive tract relatively unchanged. This type of dietary fiber speeds up the passage of food in the digestive tract and form bulk in stools. Sources of insoluble fibers may include wheat bran, whole grains, vegetables, and beans.
Dietitians and other health experts recommend eating about 20 to 35 grams of dietary fibers each day. However, make sure that you include fiber foods in your diet slowly or a little at a time so that your body can adapt to it. Make sure that you eat a well balanced diet. A dietitian can help you plan a proper diet.
Sources:
National Library of Medicine. Dietary Fiber. National Institutes of Health. Accessed: December 7, 2009
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Your Digestive System and How it Works. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Accessed: December 7, 2009
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The two major types of dietary fibers are the soluble and insoluble fibers. Soluble fibers easily dissolve in water. It takes on a soft gel-like texture in the intestines making the stools softer, which can prevent constipation. Sources of soluble fibers include beans, oat bran, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Insoluble fibers, on the other hand, pass through the digestive tract relatively unchanged. This type of dietary fiber speeds up the passage of food in the digestive tract and form bulk in stools. Sources of insoluble fibers may include wheat bran, whole grains, vegetables, and beans.
Dietitians and other health experts recommend eating about 20 to 35 grams of dietary fibers each day. However, make sure that you include fiber foods in your diet slowly or a little at a time so that your body can adapt to it. Make sure that you eat a well balanced diet. A dietitian can help you plan a proper diet.
Sources:
National Library of Medicine. Dietary Fiber. National Institutes of Health. Accessed: December 7, 2009
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Your Digestive System and How it Works. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Accessed: December 7, 2009
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