Benefit of Fiber
Dietary fiber is broadly divided into two categories, soluble and insoluble in water. Both species are found in all plant foods.
The insoluble fiber has the property to attract water and increase in bulk. It can soften the stools and accelerate the passage through the intestinal tract. The soluble fiber becomes involved in a process of fermentation end-products and a favorable effect on the body.
The sources of soluble fiber are beans, oat bran, fruits and vegetables. The insoluble fiber from whole grains, vegetables and beans. Soluble fiber absorbs water and makes stools softer and bulkier. Hence the fiber in whole grain products is beneficial in the treatment of constipation, hemorrhoids and diverticulosis. Diverticula are pouches in the intestinal wall to get inflamed and painful.
The risk of coronary heart disease can be reduced by reducing blood cholesterol. Elimination of cholesterol is via the excretion of bile acids. Water soluble fiber has the property of binding with bile acid. Hence fiber diet may help in the excretion of cholesterol. Fiber diet is useful for people to lose weight. Fiber provides a feeling of fullness due to the water absorbing property. Apple juice is more filling than the same calorie value.
Kidney beans, both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. The soluble fiber in beans binds bile confirmed with cholesterol and helps in getting it out and reducing the total cholesterol count. The proportion of insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool and relieves constipation.