There are actually two types of fiber - soluble and insoluble. The most basic difference between the two is that soluble fiber dissolves in water (hence its name).
Soluble fiber has several benefits that may also reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Fiber may help prevent spasms because it keeps the colon somewhat distended. It absorbs water, which helps to keep stools from being too hard and therefore difficult to pass. Doctors usually recommend that enough fiber is eaten to insure that stools are soft and passed painlessly and easily. Initially switching to a high fiber diet may increase gas and bloating, but these symptoms should decrease as the body becomes adjusted, which can take a few weeks.
Sources of Soluble Fiber- Barley
- Brown rice
- Currants
- Dried beans
- Figs
- French bread
- Fresh peas
- Methylcellulose (Citrucel)
- Oat Bran
- Oatmeal
- Pasta
- Prunes
- Psyllium husks (Metamucil)
- Raisins
- Rice
- Sourdough bread
- Soy
