FIBER Article, Research Paper Example

• What is the function of fiber in the body?

According to the Life Science Research Office of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, fiber is basically the endogenous plant components that are resistant to digestion. Other factors of fibers such as cellulose and hemicelluloses are sourced out from plant walls.

• What are some examples of food sources of dietary fiber?

Some common sources of dietary fiber include wheat, rye, rice and other grain products that harvested and sold in the market. Other processed food choices that are rich in dietary fiber also includes oats specifically because of the fact that it has been primarily produced from grains.

• What is the difference between soluble and insoluble fiber?

Soluble fiber immediately dissolved in water and is readily fermented into gas while insoluble fiber cannot be dissolved in water; its chemical change is affected through metabolic operations. These fibers absorb water as they move, thus easing out constipation.

• What are the fiber recommendations for children versus adults, according to the article?

According to the article, children must follow the step1 rule when they reach 2 years of age when it comes to taking in dietary fibers. This means that that 30% and 10% of total calories should be taken in from complex carbohydrates. As a child grows, the age plus 5 rule is suggested for adaptation. This means that for a five year old, 10g or fiber per day; as the child ages, +5g of fiber is added into the child’s dietary allowance [based on a daily rate intake]. On the other end, adults are expected to take in at least 25 to 35g of fiber everyday from foods and not from supplements.

• What did you learn about fiber that you were not aware of prior to reading this information?

I learned that fiber intake should be controlled accordingly. Although it is a healthy element that helps the body to develop accordingly, it does have negative effects when taken in without any precautions considered. Although the negative effects are not as strong compared to the positive effects, it is essential to remain cautions just the same.

References:

Marlett JA (2001). “Dietary fiber and cardiovascular disease”. In Dreher ML, Cho SS. Handbook of dietary fiber. New York: M. Dekker. pp. 17–30.

Van Horn, L. (1997). Fiber, Lipids, and Coronary Heart Disease. A Statement for Healthcare Professionals From the Nutrition Committee, American Heart Association. http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/95/12/2701.full. (Retrieved on November 14, 2013).