The Importance and Function of Fiber in the Diet

1. Fiber stimulates chewing which in turn eventually stimulates gastric secretions.
2. It's bulk provides a sense of fullness in the stomach.
3. Fiber decreases intraluminal colonic pressure by increasing the volume of stools.
4. Fiber dilutes the intestinal contents which dilutes endotoxins in the bowel.
5. Fiber decreases Bowel Transit Time which also reduces the exposure time to endotoxins.
6. Fiber slows the absorption of glucose.
7. Fiber increases the excretion of endogenous estrogens by binding them and allowing the body to excrete them in stools.

Source: Medical Nutrition From Marz.