Answer to Question #94112 in Human Anatomy and Physiology for Alicia martin

Question

Explain the structural and functional differences between soluble and insoluble fiber.

Which type of fiber has been shown to lower/improve cholesterol levels?

What is the proposed mechanism of action for this associated health benefit? ( how does fiber help naturally lower cholesterol?)

Answer 1

1.Soluble fiber molecules(this type of fiber dissolves in water to form a gel-like material):

Inulins

Pectins:

(1,3/1,4) ß-Glucans:

Insoluble fiber molecules:

Cellulose:

(1,3/1,6) ß-glucan(insoluble version):

2.soluble dietary fibres

3.Three major biological mechanisms have been proposed to explain the cholesterol-reducing effects of soluble dietary fibres: prevention of bile salt re-absorption from the small intestine leading to an excess faecal bile salt excretion; reduced glycemic response leading to lower insulin stimulation of hepatic cholesterol synthesis; and physiological effects of fermentation products of soluble dietary fibres, mainly propionate.