Fiber (unspecified)
Other names for Fiber (unspecified)
citrus fiber
dietary fiber
dietary fiber less than
dietary fibers
dietary fiber, soluble
dietary fibre
diet. fiber
fiber
fibers
grain fiber
hypo-allergenic plant fiber
hypoallergenic plant fiber
insoluable fiber
insoluble fiber
insoluble fibre
natural dietary fiber
natural polysaccharide fiber
natural, soluble fiber
natural vegetable fiber
non-gmo vegetable fiber
nutraflora short-chain fructooligosaccharides
organic fiber
organic prebiotic fiber
organic prebiotic powder
organic prebiotic vegetable fiber
plant fiber
prebiotic
prebiotic dietary fiber
prebiotic fiber
prebiotic soluble dietary fiber
prebiotic soluble fiber
preticx prebiotic fiber
purified plant fiber
soluable fiber
soluble dietary fiber
soluble dietary maize fiber
soluble fiber
soluble fibre
soluble vegetable fiber
special plant fiber
total dietary fiber
total fiber
vegetable fiber
Synopsis of Fiber (unspecified)
History
Fiber, often derived from various plant sources such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and seeds, has a rich history in medicinal use dating back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Chinese medical practitioners recognized the importance of consuming fibrous plant materials for maintaining digestive health. Remedies involving fiber-rich foods or herbal mixtures were commonly employed to alleviate constipation, promote regularity, and detoxify the digestive tract. For instance, psyllium husk and flaxseed, both rich in soluble and insoluble fiber, were historically used to prepare gentle laxative formulations, providing relief from digestive discomfort while supporting overall gut health.
Throughout history, fiber has also played a crucial role in traditional herbal combinations. Herbalists have paired fiber-rich ingredients with other botanicals to enhance their effects. For example, combining fiber with soothing herbs like slippery elm or marshmallow root created remedies that not only promoted healthy elimination but also soothed inflamed intestinal linings. Such synergistic blends have been valued for supporting gastrointestinal balance and wellness.
In addition to digestive benefits, regular fiber intake has been historically linked to improved satiety, better blood sugar regulation, and cardiovascular health. The positive impact of fiber-rich diets on overall well-being has been recognized across cultures, leading to its continued use in both traditional and modern nutritional products. Today, fiber remains a cornerstone of herbal and nutritional formulations, celebrated for its natural ability to support and maintain optimal health in a gentle, effective manner.
Traditional and scientific validation
Dietary fiber, often listed as "fiber (unspecified)" in nutritional ingredient lists, refers to the indigestible portion of plant foods that passes relatively intact through the digestive system. Historically, fiber has been recognized for its role in promoting digestive health, with ancient civilizations consuming high-fiber diets from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. The scientific interest in fiber grew notably in the 1970s, following epidemiological studies such as those by Dr. Denis Burkitt, which linked high-fiber diets with reduced rates of chronic diseases in certain populations.
A substantial body of research supports the health benefits of dietary fiber. Clinical trials and observational studies have associated adequate fiber intake with improved bowel regularity, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, and better blood glucose control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. For example, a 2019 systematic review published in The Lancet reviewed data from over 200 studies, concluding that higher fiber consumption correlates with lower incidence of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and colorectal cancer.
Despite these positive associations, the precise effects of individual types of fiber, and fiber as a nutritional supplement, can vary and are still being studied. Some effects may depend on the specific source, solubility, and fermentability of the fiber. While more research is needed to clarify the mechanisms and optimal types and amounts, the consensus among health authorities is that fiber is a valuable dietary component. Its inclusion in nutritional products is considered beneficial for overall health, especially given modern diets often fall short of recommended fiber intake.
Fiber (unspecified) is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Scientific)
Acid Indigestion (Scientific)
Anal Fistula or Fissure (Scientific)
Blood in Stool (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Colon (atonic) (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Constipation (children) (Scientific)
Crohn's Disease (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Diverticulitis (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed) (Scientific)
Gas and Bloating (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Hemorrhoids (Scientific)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Kidney Stones (Scientific)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Scientific)
Metabolic Syndrome (Scientific)
Pancreatitis (Scientific)
Prolapsed Colon (Scientific)
Sugar Cravings (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
Fiber (unspecified) is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Liver (Scientific)
Pancreas Head (Scientific)
Rectum (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
