Soluble fiber

Definition

Soluble fiber refers to dietary fiber that dissolves in water.

Health considerations

Soluble fiber forms a gel when dissolved in water, which delays emptying of the stomach and increases satiety. This regulation may help prevent spikes in blood sugar and insulin following a meal. Soluble fiber significantly lowers cholesterol levels in the blood, specifically LDL cholesterol.

Keep in mind

Consuming soluble fiber with inadequate water can cause gastrointestinal distress and choking if using a supplement

May be found in

Gums (guar, xanthan, gellan, etc.), pectins (found in some fruit and vegetables), oats, lentils, psyllium husks, flaxseeds, beans, oat bran

References

Dietary Fiber
WebMD

Alternative Spellings and Names

Soluble fiber