MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Soluble vs. insoluble fiber

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Soluble vs. insoluble fiber

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Illustrations Alternative Names	Information

Illustrations

Soluble and insoluble fiber

Alternative Names Return to top

Insoluble vs. soluble fiber; Fiber - soluble vs. insoluble

Information Return to top

There are two different types of fiber -- soluble and insoluble. Both are important for health, digestion, and preventing diseases.

Soluble fiber slows digestion and helps your body absorb vital nutrients from foods. It can be found in peas, beans, and apples.
Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool, helping foods pass more quickly through the stomach and intestines. It can be found in wheat bran.

See fiber.

Update Date: 1/2/2007

Updated by: William McGee, M.D., M.H.A., Assistant Professor of Medicine and Surgery, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, and Chairman, Nutrition Committee, Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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