Nonstarch polysaccharides sources

Cauliflower has a very high waste index (Kulkami et ah, 2001) and is an excellent source of protein (16.1%), cellulose (16%), and hemicellulose (8%) (Wadhwa et ah, 2006). It is considered as a rich source of dietary fiber and it possess both antioxidant and anticarcinogenic properties. Phenolic compounds and vitamin C are the major antioxidants of brassica vegetables, due to their high content and high antioxidant activity (Podsedek, 2007). Lipid-soluble antioxidants (carotenoids and vitamin E) are responsible for up to 20% of the brassica total antioxidant activity. The level of nonstarch polysaccharide (NPS) in the upper cauliflower stem is similar to that of the floret and both are rich in pectic polysaccharides, while the cauliflower lower stem is rich in NPS due mainly to cellulose and xylan deposition (Femenia et ah, 1998). 

Polysaccharides are composed of more than 20 monosaccharide units. Polysaccharides often are classified as being starch or nonstarch. Starch polysaccharides represent a source of energy in human beings while nonstarch polysaccharides generally are nondigestible and are important in maintaining intestinal health. 

In general, nonstarch polysaccharides are resistant to digestion in the small intestine and are fermentable in the large intestine of humans. Thus, nonstarch polysaccharides are a source of dietary... 

Nonstarch Nonstarch polysaccharides (NSP), formerly referred to as dietary fiber, can either be soluble or insoluble and are mainly derived from cereals, especially wholegrain. Wheat, rice, and maize contain predominantly insoluble NSP, while oats, rye, and barley contain predominantly soluble NSP. Vegetables are also a source of NSP and contain equal amounts of insoluble and soluble NSP. Intakes of NSP range from about 19gday in Europe and North American countries to 30gday in rural Africa. 

Food source Nonstarch polysaccharides (g perl 00 g fresh weight) ... 

---