Dietary fiber function

The variation ia water solubiUty among polysaccharides results ia varied physiological roles. Plant ceU-waH polysaccharides and lignin provide iasoluble dietary fiber (IDF) nondigestible storage polysaccharides, some pectic polysaccharides, and most of the functional additives contribute soluble dietary fiber (SDF). 

SRB contains high-quality protein, oil, dietary fiber, polysaccharides, fat-soluble phytochemicals (plant derived bioactive compounds) and other bran nutrients. Rice bran and germ are the richest natural sources of B complex vitamins as well as E vitamins, polyphenols, several antioxidants and minerals. It is now available in the commercial food ingredient market as a safe and effective functional food and dietary supplement. 

Recent scientific studies have clearly established the nutritional role of dietary fiber in several health conditions (Jalili et al., 2000), such as hypercholesterolemia (Topping et al., 1990), diabetes (Chandalia et al., 2000) and bowel function. It is also effective in preventing urinary stones (Ohkawa et al., 1984). The Food and Nutrition Board (Institute of Medicine Report, 2001) recommended a daily allowance for fiber of 25-30 g, though it is not an essential nutrient. Rice bran fiber offers a good source of non-bloating dietary fiber and is marketed as RiceMucil by NutraStar Company in the USA. 

JALILI T, wiLDMAN RFC, MEDEROs D M (2000) Nutiaceutical role of dietary fiber. J Nutraceutical, Functional and Medical Foods, 2(4) 19-34. 

Fiber Dietary fiber is defined as the nondigestible carbohydrates and lignin (a complex polymer of phenylpropanoid subunits) pres ent in plants. Several different terms are used to described this complex group of compounds. For example, functional fiber is the... 

Eastwood, M.A. and Morris, E.R. 1992. Physical properties of dietary fiber that influence physiological function A model for polymers along the gastrointestinal tract. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 55, 436-442. 

The annual productions of barley and oats average about 141 and 25 million metric tons in the world (11), respectively. Like com, most barley and oat grain is used for animal feed (about 70% of world production) (115). Today, the use of oat and barley in human foods is very limited. However, recent interests in oat- and barley-derived dietary fibers enriched in p-glucan create a great potential for functional foods, nutraceuticals, and other value-added product development from these grains. 

Whether dietary fiber is required for the health of the colonocylcs has not been proven, although evidence suggests such a requirement Absorption of salts and water is a major function of the large intestine. Short-chain fatly adds stimulate the absorption of sodium, chloride, and water in the colon (Hoverstad, 1986). in the absence of short-chain fatty acids, the mucosa of the colon may become inflamed or atrophied. 

BeMiller JN (2001) Classification, structure, and chemistry of polysaccharides in foods. In Cho SS, Dreher M (eds) Handbook of dietary fiber and functional foods. Marcel Dekker, New York, chap 31... 

Figs are a convenient single-food source broad in nutrient content, having exceptional amounts of insoluble and prebiotic dietary fiber, essential dietary minerals, and an unsaturated omega-6 fat, linoleic acid. Essential vitamins A (from carotenoids), B, and K are also present in high densities in the fig. These vitamins have an array of uses in the body—from antioxidant and metabolic roles to participation in blood coagulation and vascular function—that together support cardiovascular health. 

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