Fiber includes stems, leaves, seeds, and plant secretions. It is an excellent natural laxative as it provides bulk and absorbs water, making the stool soft and easy to eliminate. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and grains. Much of the fiber in fruits and vegetables is in the skin. There are two types - soluble and insoluble.
Soluble fiber is found mainly in fruits and vegetables.
It is also present in oat bran, barley and legumes. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and passes through the digestive system more slowly than insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber, along with a low fat diet, may help lower blood cholesterol levels in some people. It may also help keep glucose levels in balance. Insoluble fiber consists mostly of compounds that make up the structure of plant cells and bran layers of cereal grains.