Fiber foods are intricate carbohydrates that are quite different from other carbohydrates that are digested to give fuel to the body in form of glucose. However, fiber is never digested by the human body. It is also known as roughage, it is generally found only in plants. It is the only part of the plant that is never digested and is found in the walls of the plant cells.
The major function of fiber foods is to make sure the digestive system is functioning properly and healthily. It speeds up and aids the excretion of toxins and wastes from the human body. This prevents the wastes from accumulating in the bowel or intestines for too long. The accumulation of toxins and wastes in the body can lead to various diseases.
Types of Fiber
To answer the question what is fiber? It is important for you to understand the two main types of fiber:
- Insoluble Fiber and
- Soluble Fiber.
Insoluble fiber just passes through the human body without any change along with the digested food until it reaches the large intestines. This type promotes the growth of particular bacteria, which ferments the food and makes it bulky and soft.
On the other hand, soluble fiber absorbs the water in the intestines. This softens the stool and aids waste removal through the body quickly. Recent studies show that this type of fiber reduces the cholesterol level in the blood. However, it slows down digestion resulting in the sudden release of energy. This explains why it is good for diabetic patients.
Read Also: Fiber Foods, An Essential Part Of Your Diet
Benefits of Fiber
What is fiber and what are its benefits? Fiber is known to combat constipation. This is one of the undisputed facts of insoluble fiber. It has the ability to expand and soften stool volume, and speed up fecal elimination and transit. In addition, improves control and regulates blood sugar. It reduces the blood fats in the body. This explains why it is essential for people who want to Lose Weight.
Fiber improves overall heart health. This is because of its ability to lower cholesterol levels and its effects. Adequate intake of foods rich in fiber protects a person against cancer. For instance, the bacteria in the bowel convert fiber into tiny chain fatty acids that release energy for your body and increase protection against cancer.
Sources of Fiber
What are the sources of fiber? There are certain plants that are rich in fiber than others. It is important for such plants to be part of your diet regularly. Soluble fiber can be obtained from:
- Oat Bran
- Legumes (lentils, peas, and dried beans), and
- Oatmeal
- Fruits
- Cereals
- Bread
- Wheat Bran
- Nuts
- Vegetables
It is also found in fruits such as strawberries and apples. Insoluble fiber is present in whole-grain cereals, bread, wheat bran, nuts and seeds, vegetables, and fruits.
Eating foods, which are rich in fiber, will help you lose weight as they make you feel fuller. To increase the intake, you need to do it gradually. A sudden increase can result in stomach cramps and upsets. Although we do not acquire nutrients or energy, fiber plays an integral part in our healthy diet.
