fiber

In food, fiber is a type of carbohydrate found in plant foods that the body cannot digest. Fiber comes in two forms: soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber is found in apples, bananas, oats, peas, black beans, lima beans, Brussels sprouts, and avocados. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and helps move food through the digestive system, relieving or preventing constipation. Insoluble fiber is found in whole wheat flour, bran, nuts, seeds, and the skins of many fruits and vegetables. Eating foods rich in fiber may help with weight loss and reduce the risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. In body tissues, fiber refers to long thread-like cells, such as muscle fibers or nerve fibers.