Dietary Fibre
Science: KS3, topic 1.4.9
Dietary Fibre
Fibre, or roughage, is an important part of a healthy balanced diet. Fibre has many useful benefits for humans.
Function
- Fibre lowers the risk of health problems including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Bowel cancers
- Fibre aids in digestion by:
- Keeping you regular
- Preventing constipation
- Lowering the risk of haemorrhoids
Description
- Fibre is a type of carbohydrate.
- The human body is unable to break down fibre, as it is similar to cellulose.
- Humans can therefore not digest fibre.
Fibre rich diet
- Fibre is found in the following foods:
- Beans
- Nuts
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Wholemeal bread
- Rice
Test yourself on Dietary Fibre
What does fibre lower the risk of?
Which of these foods is the best source of dietary fibre?
Which nutrient should someone eat more of to help lower their risk of type 2 diabetes?