This kind of fiber is made up of sticky substances like gums and gels. This allows patients to take less diabetes medication while keeping their blood sugar normal. Persons with diabetes often have sharp rises of blood sugar following meals. Increased soluble fiber in meals slows down the release of food into the intestine and keeps the blood sugar from rising rapidly. Soluble fiber probably works by increasing the passage of bile acids through the digestive tract.
Cholesterol is taken out of the blood to form more bile acids.
Some researchers think that smaller fragments of soluble fiber are absorbed into the bloodstream. These fragments may decrease the production of cholesterol. Clinical studies show a lowering of blood pressure in response to increased amounts of fiber. This may be the result of other factors such as dietary fat, calories, or sodium. You may be less likely to gain weight and find it easier to lose weight on a high fiber diet.