What type of carbohydrates are found in the tough, stringy parts of some foods?

The correct answer, fiber, refers to the type of carbohydrate found in the tough, stringy parts of foods, particularly in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Fiber is unique among carbohydrates because it is not digested by the body in the same way that sugars and starches are. Instead, it plays a crucial role in digestive health by adding bulk to the diet, helping to regulate the body’s use of sugars, and improving bowel health.

Fiber has two main forms: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber can dissolve in water and is found in foods like oats and beans, whereas insoluble fiber does not dissolve and contributes to the structure of plant cells, which is why it is associated with tougher, stringy parts of vegetables and whole grains. This characteristic helps promote feeling full, aids in digestion, and can help to prevent constipation.

In contrast, sugars and starches primarily provide energy in the form of glucose, and simple carbohydrates are typically associated with quick-digesting sugars found in sweets and processed foods. Hence, they do not share the structural properties and health benefits that fiber offers.