Dietary fibre, also known as roughage, is the indigestible part of plant foods. Fibre has a host of health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Fibre is mostly in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. There are two types of fibre — soluble and insoluble — and both play important roles in health:
Insoluble fibre does not dissolve in water and adds bulk to the stool, preventing constipation. Soluble fibre absorbs water, forming a gel-like substance in the digestive system.
Soluble fibre may help lower cholesterol levels and help regulate blood sugar levels. For some healthy fibre-rich foods suggestions click on the link.