What are dietary fibers primarily composed of?

Dietary fibers are primarily composed of polysaccharides, which are long chains of carbohydrate molecules made up of repeating units of monosaccharides. These complex carbohydrates are not fully digestible by human enzymes, which is a key characteristic that distinguishes fibers from other types of carbohydrates.

Consuming dietary fiber is beneficial for digestive health, as it helps regulate bowel movements, aids in nutrient absorption, and supports a healthy gut microbiome. Polysaccharides include cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin, which are found in plant-based foods.

In contrast, monosaccharides are simple sugars that are easily absorbed and utilized by the body, while disaccharides are formed from two monosaccharides. Oligosaccharides consist of a small number of monosaccharides linked together but are still not classified as dietary fibers, as they are often more easily digestible and less effective in promoting the same health benefits as polysaccharides do. Therefore, understanding that dietary fibers are primarily composed of polysaccharides is essential for recognizing their role in nutrition and health.