Physiological Effects and Health Consequences of Dietary Fiber

摘要

In the report, the physiological effects and health consequences of consumption of dietary fiber are reviewed by an ad hoc Expert Panel. Analytical methods for the measurement of dietary fiber and the physical and chemical properties of dietary fiber are discussed. The physiological effects of dietary fiber on chewing and salivation, satiety, gastric emptying, intestinal absorption and digestion of nutrients, bile acid excretion, serum lipid levels, postprandial glucose and insulin response, intestinal morphology and cell proliferation, colonic microflora, and colon function are reviewed. Epidemiological studies and clinical trials of the potential beneficial effects of dietary fiber in weight reduction, diabetes, hyperlipidemias and cardiovascular disease, gallstones, gastrointestinal disorders, colon cancer, and other disorders, as well as the potential deleterious effects on mineral bioavailability and other functions, are evaluated. Estimates of intake of dietary fiber in the United States are discussed and recommendations for fiber consumption are given. The report contains a bibliography with 815 citations.