Tag: Indigestible polysaccharides

According to the National Institutes of Health, indigestible polysaccharides like dietary fiber play a crucial role in maintaining human health by promoting proper digestive function. This article explores the answer to the question, "Which of the following is an indigestible polysaccharide?" by explaining the function of cellulose, chitin, and other fibers within the body.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the average American consumes only half the recommended daily amount of fiber, much of which is comprised of complex, indigestible polysaccharides. These carbohydrates, which cannot be broken down by human digestive enzymes, are essential for promoting digestive health, regulating blood sugar, and supporting the gut microbiome.

While some carbohydrates like starch are a major energy source, a significant portion of polysaccharides found in plants cannot be digested by the human body. Understanding which polysaccharides can the human body not digest is key to appreciating the vital role of dietary fiber in promoting gut health and preventing chronic disease.

Approximately 95% of indigestible carbohydrates are fermented by gut microbes, and the most prominent example is the polysaccharide cellulose. While other complex carbohydrates like starch are easily broken down for energy, cellulose and other dietary fibers pass through the small intestine largely intact, offering significant health benefits for the colon.

Over 100 trillion microorganisms reside in the human gut, playing a crucial role in processing nutrients our bodies cannot, including indigestible polysaccharides. These complex carbohydrates are resistant to human digestive enzymes, passing largely unchanged through the stomach and small intestine to be fermented by the gut microbiota. Their presence is vital for maintaining a healthy digestive system, regulating metabolism, and influencing overall health.