1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Cholesterol

Insoluble Fiber

By Jennifer Moll, About.com

Updated: September 25, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Insoluble fiber is a type of fiber that, when consumed, passes through the body and is excreted, rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream. This type of fiber is “insoluble”, meaning that it does not readily mix with water. In this case, it will pass through the intestine intact.

There are many foods that serve as a source of insoluble fiber, including fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds.

Insoluble fiber is mostly used in the maintenance of intestinal health by mainly reducing constipation. It does not play a significant role in cholesterol reduction.

Explore Cholesterol
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Cholesterol
  4. Cholesterol Glossary
  5. Insoluble Fiber - Definition of Insoluble Fiber

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.