Most people know fiber comes from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, but what exactly is it?
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate found naturally in plant foods. Unlike other carbohydrates, fiber is not completely broken down during digestion. Instead, it travels through the digestive tract and plays an important role as part of a balanced diet.
Soluble Fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and can form a gel-like substance during digestion.
Sources:
Insoluble Fiber. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and adds bulk to foods as they move through the digestive tract.
Sources:
Both types of fiber can be part of a healthy eating pattern.
While digestive enzymes help break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats from the foods we eat, certain types of fiber move through the digestive tract differently and become part of the normal digestive process.
Some fibers also serve as food sources for beneficial bacteria in the gut, which is one reason dietary diversity is an important part of supporting a balanced digestive environment.
Kids are constantly learning and developing healthy habits around food. Introducing a variety of fiber-containing foods early can help children become familiar with different textures, flavors, and nutrients.
Examples:
This is your seasonal tie-in:
Simple habits can help families maintain balanced routines:
Digestion is a complex process involving many different steps. Digestive enzymes play a role in breaking down nutrients from food, while fiber contributes its own unique role within a balanced diet. Together with healthy lifestyle habits, nutrition supports the body's natural processes.
Transformation Enzymes™ offers digestive enzyme products designed to complement a healthy lifestyle, including options formulated with children in mind such as Kidz Digest Powder and Kidz Chewables.*