Adequate fibre in our diet has a beneficial effect on intestinal peristalsis and microbiota …. and healthy gut microbiota has a positive impact of our physical and mental health!

Roles of Soluble Fiber: Digestive Regulation, Cholesterol Control, and Gut Microbiota Support
Soluble fibre has the ability to absorb water and form a gel-like substance in the gut. This gel-like texture slows down the movement of food through the digestive tract, which can help regulate bowel movements and reduce the risk of diarrhoea. In addition, the gel formed by soluble fibre can bind to cholesterol and bile acids, promoting their elimination, which can positively affect heart health.

Soluble fibre also acts as a prebiotic, providing food for beneficial gut bacteria. When soluble fibre reaches the colon, it is fermented by intestinal bacteria to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). SCFAs play a crucial role in maintaining gut health by supporting beneficial bacteria growth and suppressing harmful bacteria growth. The fermentation of soluble fibre also helps maintain a more acidic environment in the colon, further supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Healthy Fibre Rich Meal

Roles and Benefits of Insoluble Fiber in Bowel Health and Gut Microbiota
Insoluble fibre, on the other hand, does not dissolve in water and remains relatively unchanged as it passes through the digestive system. Insoluble fibre adds bulk to the stool, which can help speed up bowel transit and promote regular bowel movements. It is particularly beneficial in preventing constipation and maintaining bowel regularity. While gut bacteria do not directly ferment insoluble fibre themselves, its presence can indirectly support healthy gut microbiota. Insoluble fibre helps move food through the digestive system, which can help prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria by reducing the time they spend in the colon.

Breakfast Protein Cup

In summary, the key differences between the influence of soluble and insoluble fibre on intestinal peristalsis and intestinal flora lie in their ability to absorb water and form a gel (soluble fibre) or add bulk (insoluble fibre) to the stool. Soluble fibre slows down the digestive process, supports beneficial gut bacteria through fermentation, and may aid in cholesterol management. Insoluble fibre, on the other hand, promotes regular bowel movements and indirectly supports gut health by aiding in the elimination of waste and preventing harmful bacteria overgrowth. Both types of fibre play essential roles in maintaining a healthy digestive system and overall well-being.

So be sure to include both types of fibre in your diet, as they play an important role in maintaining a healthy digestive system and overall sense of well-being.

Try Viva la Gaia!
In the Viva la Gaia online store, we have prepared two types of fibre for you, flax seed and psyllium fibre, with extremely favourable properties for your digestion.