Difference between Soluble and Insoluble Fiber
Fiber is generally derived from plants. Both soluble and insoluble fiber have several health benefits, including digestion and heart health. Read this miniblog to learn more!
What is Fiber?
Fiber is mainly found in fruits and vegetables. It is a type of indigestible complex carbohydrate that passes out of the body undigested. Fiber keeps you satiated for longer, helps in weight management, and doesn't cause a blood sugar spike.
Fiber is classified as soluble and insoluble.
Soluble Fiber
Soluble fiber is water-soluble. When it enters the stomach and intestine, it dissolves with water and other fluids there to form a gel-like substance, which slows digestion.
Benefits and Sources of Soluble Fiber
Soluble fiber can help relieve diarrhea, lower LDL ( bad cholesterol), reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, aid weight loss, lower fat absorption, and promote good bacteria in the gut.
Soluble fiber is present in oats, bananas, white rice, peas, beans, melons, carrots, turnips, chickpeas, skinless fruits, lentils, and barley.
Insoluble Fiber
As the name signifies, it doesn't dissolve in water and passes through the body almost unchanged.
Benefits and Sources of Insoluble Fiber
Insoluble fiber relieves constipation and promotes regular bowel movement. It lowers the risk of colorectal cancer. Insoluble fiber promotes insulin sensitivity and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Insoluble fiber is found in wheat bran, whole grains, brown rice, nuts, green beans, potatoes, kiwi, cabbage, berries, spinach, and citrus fruits.