Definition of soluble fiber

Soluble fiber is the type of indigestible plant carbohydrate that dissolves in water and turns into a thick gel during digestion. Apple for example contains 80 calories but impressive 5 grams of fiber, is an excellent source of a particular soluble fiber called pectin.

Soluble fiber classification is including gums, mucilages, pectin, and some hemicellulose.

Both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber can be degraded by intestinal bacteria, but soluble fiber is more easily, rapidly and completely fermented than insoluble.

Soluble fiber’s gummy texture also may interfere with carbohydrate and glucose absorption in the intestine, leading blood sugar and insulin.

The unique of soluble fiber is its molecular affinity to bind fat and cholesterol and thus promote heart health. 

Sources of soluble fiber are oats, barley, legumes and some fruits and vegetables.

The fiber in oat bran and legumes is particular effective in binding the cholesterol rich bile salts and also undigested breakdown products of fats that may have the potential for carcinogenesis.
Definition of soluble fiber