Fiber is found in plant foods and cannot be digested by the body. However, fiber can ferment when it interacts with gut bacteria, which results in a number of health benefits. It increases the frequency of bowel movements, reducing the amount of time toxins and carcinogens spend inside the body. This, in turn, can reduce the risk of colon cancer. Fiber also reduces cholesterol, glucose, and insulin levels. It curbs hunger and promotes the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Ideally, people should eat 25-38 grams of fiber a day.
Read more: Nutrition: What you should know about fiber