Fiber, broadly described, is a type of complex carbohydrate that your body cannot fully digest. While there are many sources of fiber, there are two basic categories–soluble and insoluble. While soluble fibers (sometimes referred to as viscous fibers) and insoluble fiber (also referred to as bulking fiber) are both important and have some shared functions, they are handled differently by the body and also confer unique health benefits.
Soluble fiber (found in food sources such as oats, chia and flax seeds, nuts, legumes like beans and lentils, mushrooms, berries, and other fruits), dissolves readily in water and helps slow the digestive process. This speed control supports absorption of certain nutrients (such as carbohydrates) in the body and aids in the balancing of blood sugar levels. Select soluble fibers are also prebiotic, meaning they serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the gut. Prebiotic soluble fibers are beneficial for our GI tract and overall gut health, as the good bugs (i.e., healthy bacteria residing in our intestines) that feed on them produce helpful metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) including butyrate, acetate, and propionate (aka postbiotics). These short-chain fatty acid byproducts are also known to support healthy gut integrity and barrier function.
On the other hand, insoluble fiber (found in food sources such as avocados, wheat, seeds, beans, and fruits and vegetable skins), does not readily dissolve in water and works its way through the digestive system intact. Insoluble fiber has laxative properties and provides “bulk” to stool, promoting healthy stool form, regular bowel movements, and overall digestive function. Insoluble fiber acts metaphorically as a “broom” in the digestive process.
Our organic fiber potency+ delivers six powerhouse ingredients for pre-, pro-, and postbiotic support, including both soluble and insoluble fiber sources. Together, organic guar fiber, organic mushroom trio (reishi, maitake, and oyster), and organic green kiwifruit provide an excellent source of plant functional fibers in each scoop. And don’t forget the bonus probiotic Bacillus subtilis. This is your #1 daily ritual for the all-important #2.*