Dietary fiber consists of complex carbohydrates found in plants that cannot be digested by the human body.
There are two types of fibers: soluble fiber which dissolves in water and form a viscous gel and insoluble fiber which does not dissolve.
Dietary fiber increases the size of stools, modify its consistency and stimulate bowel contractions.
Dietary fiber feeds “good” bacteria making our gut microbiota and regulate “bad” bacteria. These “good” bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids that have a positive action on allergies, depression, metabolic diseases, and inflammation (1).
Dietary fibers slow down hunger and decrease the risk of overfeeding and obesity.
Recommended Daily Allowance for a 44-year-old male moderately active, weighting 70 kg and 175 cm tall is 38 g (2).
Do you want to know your personal recommendations ?
Dietary fiber deficiency can lead to:
Because fibers are not absorbed by the body, excess amounts are not toxic. However too much fiber can cause gastrointestinal problems including: