How Fiber Supports a Healthy Gut
When it comes to gut health, fiber is often hailed as one of the most important dietary components. Unlike other nutrients that are absorbed into the bloodstream, fiber passes relatively intact through the digestive system, playing a crucial role in maintaining balance and supporting the trillions of microbes that live within our intestines. Understanding Fiber Dietary fiber is a type of carbohydrate found in plant-based foods. It comes in two forms: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber, found in oats, beans, apples, and citrus fruits, dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance in the gut. Insoluble fiber, found in whole grains, nuts, and vegetables, adds bulk to stool and helps food pass more quickly through the digestive tract. The Microbiome Connection Our gut microbiome—the vast ecosystem of bacteria and other microorganisms—thrives on fiber, particularly certain types called prebiotics. While human enzymes can’t break down most fiber, beneficial gut bacteria use i...