Fiber

Fiber Research

Tamika Youngblood

SCI/241

July 29, 2010

Fiber has numerous key functions in the human body. Fiber absorbs many times its weight in

water and therefore transport fluids into and through the intestines. These fluids keep the bowels

moving smoothly, assist to remove toxins and waste from the intestines. Fiber also functions

to reduce blood sugar and blood cholesterol levels in the body. Some examples of food sources

of insoluble fiber are nuts, seeds, vegetables, and wheat. They do not dissolve in water.

Additionally, this fiber move through the digestive tract as solid. Some examples of food sources

of soluble fiber are oats, peas, beans, apples, oranges, and barley. Both soluble and insoluble

fibers are important for a balanced diet. Dietary fiber is divided into two types; insoluble and

soluble fiber, both in which are present in most plant foods. Insoluble fiber absorbs water,

control and balance the pH in the intestines. The functions of soluble fiber are bind with fatty

acids, prolong the stomach for emptying so that sugar is released and absorbed more slowly. The

fiber recommendations for children according to the article stated that children older than two

years should gradually adopt to the step I diet. Once a child’s caloric intake approaches that of an

adult, 1500 calories or more, 25 total grams should be well tolerated. According to the American

Heart Association, I was not aware that the current dietary fiber intakes among adults in the

United States average about 15g, or half the recommended amount.

Circulation. (1997). Fiber, Lipids, and Coronary Heart Disease. Retrieved from http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/95/12/2701