Is a term that refers to a group of food components that pass through the stomach and small intestine undigested and reach the large intestine virtually unchanged. Scientific evidence suggest that a diet high in dietary fibre can be of value for treating or preventing such disorders as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticular disease, hiatus hernia and haemorrhoids. Some components of dietary fibre may also be of value in reducing the level of cholesterol in blood and thereby decreasing a risk factor for coronary heart disease and the development of gallstones. Dietary fibre is beneficial in the treatment of some diabetics.
Material mostly derived from plant cell walls which is not digested by human digestive enzymes; a large proportion consists of non-starch polysaccharides.
Fibrous matter in food, which cannot be digested.
Dietary fiber refers to the indigestible plant components found in food, such as certain polysaccharides, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, gums, and pectins. Humans lack the enzymes required to break down these substances, resulting in them passing through the digestive system largely unchanged. As a result, dietary fiber cannot be used as a source of energy for the body.
Certain elements of dietary fiber have the ability to retain water, which contributes to increased fecal bulk and aids in bowel function. As a result, dietary fiber can be beneficial in treating conditions like constipation, diverticular disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, a high-fiber diet can assist in lowering blood cholesterol levels. Certain fiber-rich foods like fruits and vegetables also offer protective benefits against certain types of cancers. Foods with unrefined carbohydrates, such as wholemeal bread, cereals, and root vegetables, are particularly abundant sources of dietary fiber.