Soluble and insoluble fiber are both essential for a healthy diet. Soluble fiber maintains blood sugar and cholesterol levels, while insoluble fiber keeps the digestive tract clean. Both types can be found in fruits and vegetables and contribute to overall health.
There are two distinct classes or groups of dietary fiber that are required as part of any healthy diet plan: soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and is used by the body to maintain blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and keeps food passing through the digestive tract at the correct rate. Insoluble fiber absorbs fluid and helps keep the digestive tract clean. Although somewhat different in nature, both provide important elements that can contribute to a healthy lifestyle, making regular intake of both an essential part of any effective diet plan.
Soluble fiber will dissolve in liquid, and can be found in most types of fruit. Because it is easily absorbed in the body, it can be an effective tool for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber will turn into a gel in the digestive tract and works to prevent the speed of food passing through the system from moving too fast. This allows nutrients derived from food to be absorbed into the system before the bulk is excreted. Soluble fiber is also believed to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, which may indirectly promote a healthier cardiovascular system as well.
Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, will not dissolve in liquid. As such, it fulfills the important task of helping to keep the digestive tract free of anything that could cause a blockage. The insoluble fiber will absorb fluid and expand in the tract, gently but effectively speeding up the process of moving the lump through the system while cleaning the inside walls of the tract. Vegetables are an excellent source of insoluble fiber, and eating this type of fiber each day will help maintain regularity.
Both soluble and insoluble fiber are necessary as part of the daily diet because each type provides specific health benefits. Additionally, both work to maintain proper digestive tract function in general, which can have a big impact on overall health. Maintaining a stable balance between the amount of each type of fiber in the diet plan for each day can lead to more efficient absorption of vitamins and nutrients, maintain regularity, and prevent several common health ailments that can become serious over time.
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