Style Food fads may come and go, but the importance of a well-balanced diet never goes out of style. One of the most important components of a healthful diet is fiber, and while it may not be the most exciting part of the diet, the consumption of foods high in dietary fiber is essential to maintain good health and prevent many diseases. This recommendation is as strong today as when first proposed more than 20 years ago. Scientific studies continue to show support for this statement and provide new evidence to indicate the importance of having optimal amounts of dietary fiber in the diet. Dietary fiber is only found in plants.
Dietary fiber consists of two types-soluble and insoluble.
This differentiation refers to whether the fiber dissolves in hot water. It also helps explain how these two types of dietary fiber function in the intestine. It is the softer, stickier and thicker fiber. Pectins help fruits to hold water which gives them the textures we expect and enjoy. Another soluble fiber is psyllium.