Patient/caregiver was educated on advantages of insoluble fiber as follows:
- Human body lacks enzyme systems that can digest fiber. Since fiber is poorly metabolized and digested in the human body, fiber hardly contributes any to calorie count.
- Since, fiber passes through the stomach and intestines poorly digested and unabsorbed, it remains in the gastrointestinal tract.
- 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, which can result in reduced appetite.
- Diminished intake with insoluble fiber can help individuals with obesity in weight loss and attaining a healthy weight. This can also help individuals with diabetes in improving blood sugar control.
- By absorption of water and swelling in size, insoluble fiber helps add bulk to the stool and turn the stool slightly solid. Bulkier & solid stools are easier to eliminate, and thus insoluble fiber helps prevent development of constipation.
- Addition of bulk to stool by insoluble fiber and turning the stool solid can also help individuals with loose stools and prevent worsening of diarrhea.
- Easy passing of stool and constipation prevention with insoluble fiber can also help prevent complications, such as, development of hemorrhoids and intestinal bleeding, thus maintaining intestinal health.
