The surprising facts about dietary fiber
What is dietary fiber?
In the past, dietary fiber was not regarded as essential, but nowadays it is seen as to be so important that it is called the sixth nutrient. It comes in many forms with some types that dissolve in water, some that are sticky, and some that are non-sticky. Dietary fiber has a history that is still little known, and a variety of unique features.
Is all dietary fiber threadlike?
In addition to fibrous types, some dietary fiber is honeycombed, while some is spongy and porous in nature.*
Examples of dietary fiber shapes
Photo: Kiyoshi Ebihara
- *Porous: Having lots of tiny holes in the surface. A substance that is porous has a greater surface area, increasing its absorption performance.