WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN:

Soluble and insoluble fibre

Soluble fibre is soft and sticky and absorbs water to form a gel inside the digestive system. Top sources include beans, peas, oats, barley, fruits and avocados. Soluble fibre helps soften stools. It also binds to substances such as cholesterol and sugar, preventing or slowing their absorption into the blood. That’s why it’s known to help regulate blood sugar levels, and to help protect against heart disease by lowering blood cholesterol. Insoluble fibre is the type of fibre that people think of as “roughage”. It’s the tough matter found in whole grains, nuts and fruits and vegetables that doesn’t dissolve in water. Insoluble fibre isn’t broken down by the gut and absorbed into the bloodstream. It adds bulk to waste in the digestive system, which helps keep you regular and prevent constipation.