How are soluble and insoluble fiber different?

Differ properties: Both are in diet. Sol dissolves in water- pectin in apples, jelly, gums in oatmeal, oat bran, insol doesn't- wheat bran. Both increase stool bulk (different mechanisms), shorten transit time in bowel, help constipation. Sol can bind dietary cholesterol, help lower blood levels chol. Both can bind h2o in bowel, make less watery stool in diarrhea. Both can cause gas, bloat, cramps in xs.

Fiber: Soluble fiber attracts water and turns to gel during digestion. This slows digestion. It is also found in psyllium, a common fiber supplement. Iis found in foods such as wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains. It adds bulk to the stool and appears to help food pass more quickly through the stomach and intestines.