Therefore, it is referred to as non-digestible. It functions to provide consistency to stool in order to move undigested food through the digestive track. It also softens stool by absorbing large quantities of water. Fiber is considered to be either soluble or insoluble. This has to do with whether or not it dissolves in a liquid medium.
Soluble fiber is thought to lower blood cholesterol levels.
Insoluble is believed to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal disorders including cancer by speeding up the passage of food waste through the intestines. Examples of soluble fiber are oat bran, dried beans and some fruits and vegetables. Examples of insoluble fiber are bran, whole-grain breads and cereals, and most fruits and vegetables. Fat Facts Fats are a type of lipid found in the body. Another type of lipid in animal tissue and blood is cholesterol.