Fiber is what “roughages” is usually. Fiber is the part of plant, which body cannot digest because the enzymes in the intestinal tracts would not break it down. But that is what makes it beneficial to the body.
Dietary fiber helps move the excreta much quicker through the intestines. This help to reduce the levels of cancer- causing agents in the intestines.
There are different kinds of fiber. They include cellulose, hemicelluse, lignin, pectin and gum. Each of these falls into one of the two categories of fibers soluble. Solution fibers are those which can be absorbed (e.g peptin and gums) and which help to reduce blood cholesterol level.
Insoluble fibers are those, which cannot be digested (e.g cellulose, lignin and most hemicellulose) and which play a role in preventing constipation.
Numerous cases of constipation have indicated that soluble fibers improve the control of blood sugar level and can reduce the need for insulin or medication in the bodies of diabetic patients.
Most fiber-rich foods are rich in complex carbohydrates such as starch. On the other hand, they have a low fat content. This quality is a good combination for weight control. Fiber also fills you op temporarily without necessarily adding any calories
Several studies have shown that soluble fiber is effective in reducing the amount of cholesterol and other lipids in the blood. A study conducted by Dr. James Anderson at the University of Kentucky Medical School showed a significant drop in cholesterol level, when soluble fiber was added to the diet of 146 people with moderately elevated cholesterol levels.
A recent study at the American Health Foundation in New York City has come up with the report the estrogen levels, which the researcher theorizes, may worsen the risk of breast cancer, is preventable by regular consumption of fiber
The best way to get more fiber into your diet is to eat a combination of beans and other legumes, cereals, grains and other fibers from fruits and vegetables. Ensure that you drink plenty of water when taking much fiber, because fiber can slow down or even block proper bowel functions.
NATURAL SOUCES OF INSOLUBLE FIBER
- Wheat Bread etc.
NAUTRAL SOURCES OF SOLUBLE FIBER
- Grape Fruit
- Carrot etc.