About Fiber

Fiber is the indigestible part of carbohydrate. Major dietary sources of fiber include whole grain cereals, breads, legumes (dried beans), fruits, and vegetables. Fiber does not provide any calories because our digestive tract does not have the enzymes needed to break it down. Fiber falls into two broad categories: soluble and insoluble.

Major Body Functions

Soluble Fiber:

• May decrease serum (blood) cholesterol levels
• May decrease blood sugar levels

Insoluble Fiber:

• Helps to decrease and prevent constipation
• Helps prevent diverticulitis
• Decreases risk of colon cancer

Deficiency Symptoms

• Constipation

Excessive Intake and Toxicity Symptoms

• Sudden increases in fiber intake may result in intestinal gas, bloating, and cramps. However, this subsides once your body adjusts to the increased fiber intake.