Soluble vs. insoluble fiber
Illustrations
Alternative names
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Insoluble vs. soluble fiber
Information
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Question:
Is the fiber in peas, beans, or apples the same as the fiber in whole wheat bread?
Answer:
No. Peas, beans, and apples contain soluble fiber, which slows digestion and helps the body absorb nutrients from food. The bran found in whole wheat bread is an insoluble fiber, which helps foods pass through the stomach and intestines and adds bulk to the stool. Both types of fiber are valuable in preventing disease. See fiber.
Update Date: 1/6/2003
Updated by: A.D.A.M. editorial. Previous review: Monica Zangwill, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (2/1/2001).
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