Understanding the Role of Fiber in Supporting Gut Health

A diverse intake of fiber is essential for optimal gut health, as different types of fiber serve various functions akin to different trades in construction. A varied diet encourages a richer microbiome, which is associated with improved health outcomes. While probiotics, found in foods like yogurt and kombucha, provide live beneficial microorganisms, fiber acts as a prebiotic, offering nourishment to these microbes. Not all fibers qualify as prebiotics, but all known prebiotics are fiber. Some fibers, like cellulose, are not easily fermentable by gut microbes yet still contribute positively to gut health by aiding in regularity. Therefore, a combination of diverse fibers and probiotics creates a supportive environment for gut microbiota, ultimately fostering better health.