Fiber
Dietary Fiber is an indigestible carbohydrate, used by plants to form their walls. It cannot be digested or absorbed by humans. It is also referred to as roughage. Fiber is an essential nutrient that has a major impact on the health of our digestive and elimination systems. There are many kinds of fiber, but they all fall into two general categories. There are the insoluble or structural fibers that make up plant-cell walls. And, there are the soluble fibers, such as pectin, gums, and mucilage that repair injured areas, form gels, and sequester nutrients. A number of studies have found that high-fiber diets appear to improve glucose control and, reduce insulin requirements. They also appear to help prevent some diabetic complications, such as high blood cholesterol and atherosclerosis. Fiber also alters the absorptive process and bacterial content of the digestive tract. The intestines are a haven for both good and bad bacteria. Fiber, because of its ability to absorb water, gives a feeling of fullness and can help prevent overeating. People who are on a low-calorie diet program should consider taking fiber supplements or powders to help attain optimal health.
