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Dietary Fiber

 The complex carbohydrates that are not digested by the human enzymes are collectively referred to as dietary fiber. Soluble fibers, mostly found in fruits and legumes, dissolve in water and form gels (e.g., pectins, gums, mucilages). 

Insoluble fibers, present in vegetables and grains, adsorb water and swell up (e.g. cellulose hemicellulose, lignin). Certain fibers (e.g. pectins, gums) are digestible by intestinal bacterial ezymes. It may be stated that once regarded as a nutritional waste, a lot of importance is now given to dietary fiber in human health. 

Beneficial effects of Fiber 

  • Prevents Constipation 
  • Eliminates bacterial toxins 
  • Decreases Gastro Intestinal Tract Cancers 
  • Improves glucose tolerance 
  • Reduces plasma cholesterol level 
  • High satiety value 

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