Dietary fiber is an important part of a healthy diet and many of us don’t get nearly enough. Research suggests fiber is important for a healthy microbiome and can positively affect many chronic diseases. For as simple as fiber may seem, there are many confusing terms that accompany it – soluble, insoluble, resistant, fermentable, viscous etc. What kind do we need? Why does it matter?

In today’s show, we break down the different types of fiber, discuss common food sources, and outline some important health benefits to increasing the fiber in your diet.

Today on The Lab Report:

• 4:05 What is fiber and solubility?
• 6:10 Insoluble vs. soluble fiber and viscosity   
• 8:45 Clinical uses of each and specific dietary sources
• 13:20 Fiber’s unique role in the microbiome
• 16:45 Beneficial systemic effects of fiber in chronic conditions
• 17:50 Question of the Day
  • How much fiber should we be getting each day?

Additional Resources:

GI Effects Stool Profile

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