Most people understand the importance of dietary fiber
in their diet. Much has been said about its importance in heart health,
diabetes, cancer prevention, and even weight control.
What is less well understood is how different types of
fiber effect the body. Some provide fecal bulk, some are absorbed more quickly
into the blood stream than others, and thus raise blood sugar levels more
quickly, and yet others provide benefits to the heart.
Thus, despite the apparent simplicity, fiber is a
complex topic. And whilst all types of fiber are important, if you are looking
at preventing or managing specific conditions, its not enough to just look at
the total dietary fiber as written on food packaging.
