Fiber

Category:
Carbohydrates

Type:
Complex

Forms/Names:
Polysaccharide, Cellulose (insoluble), Hemicelluloses (soluble and insoluble fiber), Pectins (soluble fiber), Gums and Mucilages (soluble fiber), Lignin (nonpolysaccharide, insoluble fiber)

Functions:
Long chains of glucose molecules not digested by human enzymes Soluble ? delays GI transit, delays glucose absorption, lowers blood cholesterol Insoluble ? speeds GI transit, increases fecal weight, slows starch hydrolysis, delays glucose absorption

Food Sources:
Cereal, vegetables, fruit, legumes, beans, carrots, seeds