What is the difference between Soluble and Insoluble Fiber?

Humans are advised to take the right amount of dietary fiber to keep our colons healthy. There are two types of fiber, the soluble and insoluble fiber. Both have health benefits and some food rich in fiber contain both. Soluble fiber easily dissolves in water as well as gastrointestinal fluids when it enters the digestive system. On the other hand, insoluble fiber does not dissolve in gastrointestinal fluids nor water and remains the same as it moves from one digestive organ to another.

Soluble fiber promotes a healthy gut by feeding healthy-gut bacteria, stabilizing the levels of blood sugar, lowering cholesterol, reducing the risk of a person in getting cardiovascular disease. Insoluble fiber aids in preventing constipation and lowering the risk of developing diverticular disease.