Dietary insoluble substances

Resorption of the required mineral substances from food usually depends on the body s requirements, and in several cases also on the composition of the diet. One example of dietary influence is calcium (see p. 342). Its resorption as Ca is promoted by lactate and citrate, but phosphate, oxalic acid, and phytol inhibit calcium uptake from food due to complex formation and the production of insoluble salts. 

Dietary fiber may influence lipidemia and atherosclerosis. Substances designated as insoluble fibers (wheat bran, for instance) possess laxative properties but have little effect on serum lipid levels. Soluble fibers (gel-forming fibers such as pectin or guar gum) influence lipidemia and glycemia. Oat bran, which contains /3-glucans, which are soluble fibers, will lower cholesterol levels despite its designation. 

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