Types of Fibre
Natural occurring fibre is found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, peas and lentils. There are different types of fibre in these foods, with varying properties and effects on our bodies. Generally, the fibre in foods can be either soluble or insoluble.
Soluble fibre
- found generally found in oatmeal and oat bran, legumes, beans, nuts, psyllium and the pectin in fruits
- soluble fibre helps lower blood cholesterol levels and help manage blood sugars.
Insoluble fibre
- this fibre is found in fruits and vegetables (especially the skin), wheat bran, corn bran, flax seed and whole grains
- insoluble fibre helps move food through your digestive system quickly and efficiently.
Functional fibres are manufactured or synthetic plant and animal materials, and can be either soluble or insoluble. Examples of these include psyllium and inulin.
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