What is the function of dietary fiber in the human body?

Dietary fiber plays a significant role in aiding digestion and promoting regularity. It is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest, which means it passes through the digestive system largely intact. This characteristic allows fiber to improve bowel health by adding bulk to stool and promoting its movement through the intestines, which can help prevent constipation.

Furthermore, fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels and is beneficial for maintaining a healthy weight. By adding volume to meals, fiber can help you feel fuller for longer, which may reduce overall calorie intake. In addition to supporting digestive health, certain types of soluble fiber can also impact cholesterol levels positively by binding to cholesterol in the digestive system and helping remove it from the body.

While options related to increasing energy, enhancing nutrient absorption, or building muscle mass pertain to other aspects of nutrition, they do not accurately reflect the primary role of dietary fiber, which centers around digestion and regularity.