Here’s the difference between soluble and insoluble fiber
Fiber in your diet is a food source for the good bacteria in our gut. They also play a big role in your bowel movements because they attract moisture. In addition, fiber-rich foods make you more satiated, so you crave fewer unhealthy snacks! Be aware, there are different types of fiber and it can make a big difference to your gut health.
Non-soluble fibers
– Where do you find these fibers? In whole grain products such as bread, crackers, breakfast cereals, nuts, flaxseeds, beans and pasta
– They have a saturating effect.
– These fibers make sure your stool has the right structure
– They act like a sponge and they absorb moisture. Too thin a stool becomes thicker, too hard a stool becomes soft.
Soluble fibers (also called called prebiotics)
– Where do you find these fibers? In vegetables, fruits, potatoes, legumes, oats and soybeans.
– These fibers are broken down by bacteria in the colon.
– They are less stressful for the intestines, as insoluble fibers stimulate the intestinal wall and can therefore cause symptoms in some people
– The stool is kept flexible because the soluble fibers turn it into a kind of slimy substance. The moisture present in the food stays in the intestines and sticks the mass together, which ensures a good flow. This promotes bowel movement!
Your body needs both fibers to function properly. Too much fiber can cause digestive problems, but generally healthy people don’t get them. That is why there is no upper limit set for fiber intake. People with irritable bowel syndrome (PDS) especially benefit from soluble fiber. Dietary fiber reduces abdominal pain and insoluble fiber can actually make these symptoms worse.
