Can the body digest fiber?

The body cannot digest fiber at all, as fiber consists primarily of plant-based carbohydrates that are resistant to digestion by the human digestive enzymes. This resistance means that fiber passes through the digestive system largely intact.

However, fiber plays an important role in maintaining digestive health. It helps to add bulk to the stool, facilitating regular bowel movements, and can aid in regulating blood sugar levels and lowering cholesterol. There are two types of dietary fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber can be fermented by beneficial bacteria in the colon, producing short-chain fatty acids that provide some health benefits, but the fiber itself is not broken down into nutrients the body can use. Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, adds bulk and helps food pass through the digestive tract more quickly.

Understanding the role of fiber emphasizes its importance in a healthy diet despite the fact that it is not digested in the same way that other nutrients are.