Dietary fibre, or roughage, isn’t considered a nutrient, as such, but it plays a crucial role in the human diet. Dietary fibre consists of the edible parts of plants which can’t be absorbed by the small intestine; it passes from here into the large intenstine, where it’s eventually broken down by gut bacteria. Such fibre is important for maintaining proper bowel function, controlling blood sugar levels and keeping blood cholesterol in check. And because it has a satiating effect on our appetite, it helps maintain healthy weight, too. Good sources of dietary fibre include fruits, vegetables, pulses and wholegrains.
