Compare and Contrast on Fibers

As nutrition labeling becomes essential throughout the world, it is recognized that a single definition of fiber may be needed. New products are being developed or isolated that behave like fiber, yet do not meet the traditional requirements of fiber, either analytically or physiologically. Without an accurate definition of fiber, compounds can be designed or isolated and concentrated using available methods without necessarily providing beneficial health effects, which most people consider to be an important attribute of fiber. Most of us are familiar with the terms "soluble fiber" and "insoluble fiber” but what is the actual difference? Soluble fibers bind with fatty acids and slow digestion so blood sugars are released more slowly into the body. These fibers help lower LDL cholesterol and help regulate blood sugar levels for people with diabetes. Insoluble fibers help hydrate and move waste through the intestines and control the pH levels in the intestines. These fibers help prevent constipation and keep you regular. The three most commonly used fibers are dietary, functional, and total fibers. Dietary Fiber consists of non-digestible carbohydrates and lignin that are intrinsic and intact in plants. Functional Fiber consists of isolated, non-digestible carbohydrates that have beneficial physiological effects in humans. Total Fiber is the sum of Dietary Fiber and Functional Fiber. Dietary fiber comes from the portion of plants that is not digested by enzymes in the intestinal tract. Part of it, however, may be metabolized by bacteria in the lower gut. Different types of plants vary in their amount and kind of fiber. Dietary Fiber includes pectin, gum, mucilage, cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Pectin and gum are water-soluble fibers found inside plant cells. They slow the passage of food through the intestines but do nothing to increase fecal bulk. In contrast, fibers in cell walls are water insoluble. These include cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Such