Fiber & Gut Bacteria

Fiber is a key part of a balanced diet to maintain and promote a healthy GI system, immune

system, mental health, and gut digestion. Some fibers are called prebiotic. Prebiotic

fibers are fibers that feed the good bacteria, allowing them to grow and expand their population

and prevent bad bacteria from growing. Equilibrium is a balanced gut bacteria which affects a

state of physical and mental balance. Adding prebiotic fibers to diet are needed for maintaining a

healthy gut. There are two types of fiber, soluble and insoluble.

Soluble fiber acts as a prebiotic that feeds the gut bacteria, absorbs water and softens the stool

and prevents diarrhea or constipation. Soluble fiber slows down the process of digestion and

binds with sugar, takes the sugar out, and prevents elevating the blood sugar. It also binds to

cholesterol and prevent its absorption into the bloodstream by removing it through the colon.

Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and is not digestible by the human GI system.

Insoluble fiber's main function is to add bulk to the stool and prevent constipation. However,

some types of insoluble fiber can be broken down by gut bacteria through fermentation.

Byproducts of fermentation are short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs are produced via fiber

fermentation in the colon. They act as a source of energy for colon lining cells, and they have

anti-inflammatory effects and improve gut health. Feeding and increasing good bacteria in the

gut can support a stronger healthy immune system.