In nutritional terms, when we say "fiber", we mean "nutritional fiber." Edible plants contain dietary fiber, including indigestible portions of the plant. Fiber is found in plant cell structures like cell walls. When plant foods are chewed and digested, these cells are broken down so that the body can absorb its nutrients. The fiber remains in the digestive tract and is later eliminated. When fiber gets eliminated, it "scours" the digestive tract, cleaning it of undigested food and other debris, enabling healthy elimination. Certain kinds of fiber will also absorb excess cholesterol and dietary fats so that these substances can also be eliminated. This is why fiber is so important in the human diet.
Plant foods are essential, because animal foods do not contain fiber.
At All Star Health, we carry a wide selection of the best quality fiber supplements. Brands include Nugo Nutrition, Renew Life, Natural Factors, Now, Garden of Life, Yerba Prima and Think Thin. You’ll find capsules, nutrition bars, powdered fiber, liquid formulas and more. Fiber powder brands include Jarrow, Renew Life, Pure Planet, Genesis Today and Bayer Healthcare. Organic fiber supplements include acacia fiber, psyllium husks, plant protein, wheat grass, coconut and acai. We also offer low-carb fiber supplement products such as Atkins bars.
Soluble vs. Insoluble Fiber: You Need Both
Soluble and insoluble, the two main types of dietary fiber, play complementary roles in digestive health.
Soluble Fiber
- Attracts excess dietary fats and water
- Forms bulk and retains moisture in digestive track
- Slows the rate at which calories are absorbed, having a favorable impact on body composition and blood sugar levels
- Found in the soft part of fruit, oats, barley, peas, etc.
Insoluble Fiber
- Non-absorbent
- Cleanses and adds bulk to the system
- Scours the walls of the digestive tract
- Promotes effective elimination
- Found mostly in fruit and vegetable peels plus seed hulls
Fiber’s Many Health Benefits
Dietary fiber is required for consistent, proper elimination of waste materials which, if left in the body, can cause health issues. Fiber is also essential for people with elevated cholesterol levels or other elevated blood lipids. Studies have shown that the correct levels of soluble fiber may, over time, reduce cholesterol. For those with diabetes, soluble fiber might also improve glucose tolerance.
How to Use Fiber Supplements
Our fiber supplements are available as tablets, capsules, powders and liquids. A fiber dietary supplement might include one or multiple types of fiber. The most common ingredients are flaxseed meal, bran, psyllium husks and pectin. Other ingredients such as herbs or laxatives may be included to sooth the digestive tract. Fiber supplements vary greatly in terms of composition, so follow the package directions closely. Always drink ample water with fiber supplements. The daily recommendation for adult fiber intake is a minimum of 25-35 grams.
Side Effects and Cautions:
If dietary fiber intake significantly increases or decreases, temporary bloating and gas may occur. Using a dietary fiber supplement may cause medication absorption to slow down or be reduced.