MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Soluble vs. insoluble fiber

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Soluble vs. insoluble fiber

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names	Information References

Illustrations

Soluble and insoluble fiber

Alternative Names Return to top

Insoluble vs. soluble fiber; Fiber - soluble vs. insoluble

Information Return to top

There are two different types of fiber -- soluble and insoluble. Both are important for health, digestion, and preventing diseases.

Soluble fiber attracts water and turns to gel during digestion. This slows digestion. Soluble fiber is found in oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas, and some fruits and vegetables. Soluble fiber has been scientifically proven to lower cholesterol, which can help prevent heart disease.
Insoluble fiber is found in foods such as wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains. It adds bulk to the stool and appears to help food pass more quickly through the stomach and intestines.

See fiber.

References Return to top

Burleson K. Coronary Artery Disease. In: Rakel D, ed. Rakel: Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, 2007:chap 28.

Park D, Ring M. Peripheral Vascular Disease. In: Rakel D, ed. Rakel: Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, 2007:chap 29.

Underbakke G, McBride P. Dyslipidemias. In: Rakel D, ed. Rakel: Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, 2007:chap 40.

Hanaway P. Irritable Bowel Syndrome. In: Rakel D, ed. Rakel: Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders, 2007:chap 41.

Update Date: 8/22/2008

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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