What are the types of dietary fiber?
There are two types of fiber: soluble fiber, which is viscous and forms a gel in water. It includes components such as pectins and mucilages found in beans, some fruits, oats, rye, etc.. The other is the insoluble fiber is mainly composed of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Foods containing wheat bran and whole grains are good sources of this type of fiber. The two types have different functions, so it is important to make sure to include both in our diet.
What is the mechanism by which the insoluble fibers have the effect of accelerating and intestinal transit benefit?
Insoluble fibers have great capacity to absorb water so that they act like sponges. This increases the volume of stool, accelerates intestinal transit stimulating peristalsis, ie the coordinates of the musculature of the intestine and requires less pressure on the walls of the colon for expulsion.
