Cholesterol made by the body is an ingredient in bile, a substance that is used in digestion and is recycled. Soluble fiber binds to bile acids in the intestines, thereby lowering the body's cholesterol pool. Regularity and cancer prevention. Insoluble fiber provides bulk that helps move food residues through the intestine, which helps prevent constipation and diverticular disease. Insoluble fiber also flushes carcinogens, bile acids, and cholesterol out of the system.
Dietary fiber plays an important role in weight management.
Because fiber helps you feel full and slows the emptying of your stomach, you eat less. Also, high-fiber diets tend to be low in calories and less likely to contribute to obesity. By avoiding obesity, you lower your risks for the development and progression of heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Everyone needs a high-fiber diet to stay healthy, but many of us are not eating enough fiber. Unfortunately, most Americans eat only 14 to 15 grams a day.