Health Encyclopedia

Soluble vs. insoluble fiber

Alternative Names

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

Information

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

Soluble fiber attracts water and turns to gel during digestion. This slows digestion. Soluble fiber is found in oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas, and some fruits and vegetables. Soluble fiber has been scientifically proven to lower cholesterol, which can help prevent heart disease.
Insoluble fiber is found in foods such as wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains. It adds bulk to the stool and appears to help food pass more quickly through the stomach and intestines.

See fiber.

References

Burleson K. Coronary Artery Disease. In: Rakel D, ed. Rakel: Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, 2007:chap 28.

Park D, Ring M. Peripheral Vascular Disease. In: Rakel D, ed. Rakel: Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, 2007:chap 29.

Underbakke G, McBride P. Dyslipidemias. In: Rakel D, ed. Rakel: Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, 2007:chap 40.

Hanaway P. Irritable Bowel Syndrome. In: Rakel D, ed. Rakel: Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, 2007:chap 41.

Review Date:8/22/2008
Reviewed By:Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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