What is dietary fibre?
Quick Answer
Dietary fibre is the part of plant foods the body cannot digest, which aids digestion and feeds gut bacteria.
The Full Story
Fibre comes in two main types. Soluble fibre, found in oats, beans and apples, dissolves into a gel that can help lower cholesterol and steady blood sugar. Insoluble fibre, found in wholegrains, nuts and vegetable skins, adds bulk and helps food move through the gut. Many types feed beneficial gut bacteria, which ferment them into helpful compounds. The UK recommends 30 grams of fibre a day for adults, but most people eat far less. A 2019 Lancet review found people eating the most fibre had lower risks of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and bowel cancer.
Key Facts
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Suggested video title for this topic:
"The nutrient you can’t digest but can’t live without"