Patient/caregiver was educated on indications for high residue diet as follows:
- Obesity: Fiber is poorly digested and unabsorbed portion of the diet that remains in the stomach & intestines and is eliminated from the body in stool. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water, but absorbs the fluid in the stomach, and swells in size. By swelling in the stomach and occupying the space, insoluble fiber can make you feel full longer. Soluble fiber dissolves with water and forms a gel in the stomach and intestines. Formation of gel by soluble fiber can slow the process of digestion of food and helps keep you full longer. Being full results in reduced appetite and contributes to reduced intake. Diminished intake with fiber can help individuals with obesity in weight loss and attaining a healthy weight.
- Poorly controlled blood sugars: Insoluble fiber can make you feel full longer, which can result in reduced appetite and contribute to reduced intake. Diminished intake with insoluble fiber can help diabetic individuals with poorly controlled blood sugars to improve blood sugar control. Also, as human body lacks enzyme systems that can digest fiber, it is poorly metabolized and digested in the human body and hardly contributes any to calorie count. Soluble fiber dissolves with water and forms a gel in the stomach and intestines. Formation of gel by soluble fiber can slow the process of digestion of food and absorption of sugars in the stomach and intestines, contributing to improved blood sugar control in diabetic individuals.
