Fibers are very beneficial for health. They are the plant cell walls that form very crucial elements of our diets. This is because food rich in fiber takes a longer time to digest, thereby resulting in the feeling of fullness and satiety for prolonged period. Moreover, the gradual absorption results in slower release of glucose in the bloodstream. This results in prevention of large blood glucose or insulin spikes. In effect, a daily intake of fiber is recommended to keep the body and the system healthy. This amount should also be the perfect blend of soluble and insoluble fiber. It is easily evident from this fact though there are differences between both the fibers, both of them are very essential for staying fit. Given below is information on the difference between soluble and insoluble fiber.
Soluble Fiber Vs Insoluble Fiber
- Soluble fibers are soluble in water, whereas insoluble fibers are not.
- On the absorption of water, soluble fiber swells to form a gel like substance, whereas insoluble fiber does not get affected by water and retains its shape and form.
- Soluble fibers have benefits like moderating blood glucose levels and lowering cholesterol, whereas insoluble fibers enhance intestinal health, including a reduction in the risk and occurrence of colorectal cancer, hemorrhoids, and constipation.
- The scientific names for soluble fibers include pectins, gums and mucilages, whereas the scientific names for insoluble fibers include cellulose, lignins, etc.
- Insoluble fibers help prevent colon cancer by keeping an optimal pH in intestines to prevent microbes from producing cancerous substance.
- The vital sources of soluble fiber are oats, oatmeal, legumes (peas, beans and lentils), barley, fruits and vegetables (especially oranges, apples and carrots). On the other hand, the insoluble fibers come from the bran layers of cereal grains.
