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Fiber is a very important part of a heart-healthy diet. Most Americans don't eat enough fiber
(about 11 grams a day versus the recommended 20-45 grams daily).
Fiber is the portion of complex carbohydrate that the body cannot digest or absorb. The two types of fiber are soluble and
insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and insoluble fiber does not. These differing qualities allow them to keep you
healthy in different ways.
Insoluble fibers do not dissolve in water but absorb it as they move waste through the intestinal tract. By adding bulk
and softness to stools, insoluble fibers promote regularity and prevent constipation. This type of fiber helps manage
intestinal disorders and may help prevent certain types of cancer. Good sources of insoluble fiber include: whole wheat
products, wheat bran, corn bran, and many vegetables including the skins of fruits and potatoes.
Soluble fibers dissolve into a thick, gel-like substance as they pass through your digestive system. Soluble fiber may help
you feel more satisfied after a meal, lower blood cholesterol levels, and help to regulate blood sugar levels. Good sources
of soluble fiber include: dried beans and peas, oats, barley, psyllium seed husks, apples, and oranges.
Choose a topic at left and click for more information on Nutrition.
Copyright ©2005 Michigan Heart & Vascular Institute. All rights reserved.
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