Incorporate Dietary Fiber for Improved Digestion

Dietary fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest, essential for digestive health, regulating bowel movements, and supporting heart health.

Dietary Fiber FAQ

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What is dietary fibre?

Dietary fibre refers to a complex group of substances in plant foods which cannot be completely broken down by human digestive enzymes. This includes waxes, lignin, beta-glucans and polysaccharides such as cellulose and pectin. Originally, it was thought that dietary fibre was completely indigestible and did not provide any energy.

What are the components of dietary fiber?

Dietary fiber consists of non- starch polysaccharides and other plant components such as cellulose, resistant starch, resistant dextrins, inulin, lignins, chitins (in fungi ), pectins, beta-glucans, and oligosaccharides.

What are the health benefits of dietary fiber?

Both types have important health benefits. Good sources of dietary fiber include: Dietary fiber adds bulk to your diet and makes you feel full faster, helping you control your weight. It helps digestion and helps prevent constipation. Most Americans don't eat enough dietary fiber. But add it to your diet slowly.

What are the health benefits of eating fiber?

Dietary fiber — found mainly in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes — is probably best known for its ability to prevent or relieve constipation. But foods containing fiber can provide other health benefits as well, such as helping to maintain a healthy weight and lowering your risk of diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer.

What foods contain dietary fiber?

Foods that contain dietary fiber include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, wheat bran, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, and seeds. The general recommended dietary fiber intake is 25–30 grams per day. If you are increasing your fiber intake, do so slowly to avoid digestive discomfort. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking fiber supplements.