Dietary Fibre (NSP) Flashcards
What does NSP stand for?
Non starch polysaccharides…in other words dietary fibre.
Where are Non starch polysaccharides(fibre) found?
In the cell walls of plants.
What is the function of NSP in the body?
It is not digested but is very important as it absorbs a lot of water and binds food residues to itself ensuring faeces are soft and bulky to pass.
What happens if faeces are not passed/excreted quickly and regularly?
It can cause several problems such as constipation, diverticular disease and piles.
What could happen to people who don’t eat enough fibre in the diet?
Could cause disorders in the intestinal tract and bowel cancer.
What is usually blamed for the reduction in the amount of NSP eaten?
Foods today that are often refined which means a lot of their NSP content is removed. Examples of refined foods in factories: white flour, white bread, white sugar, white polished rice, instant potato.
How are faeces formed?
After digestion, they are formed in the large intestine after nutrients and water have been absorbed. Solid residues are passed along the intestine involving muscle contractions. The faeces collect together in the rectum and then excreted.
What are the main sources of NSP?
Wholegrain cereals, wheat, rice, oats, wholemeal bread, wholegrain pasta, fruits especially in apple skins and plums. Leafy vegetables such as celery, potato skins.
What are the types of NSP?
Cellulose, Pectin, Glucans, Gum etc.
Where does NSP come from?
It is a complex carbohydrate
