Why is roughage an important part of the diet plan?

Even though we never actually digest roughage, it works wonders on our digestive system. Roughage, also known as dietary fiber, comes from the plant-based complex carbohydrates found in fruit, vegetables, grains, beans and nuts. Unlike fats or proteins, fiber is neither digested nor absorbed, but it helps carry the food through our system and keeps it running smoothly. Fiber can be soluble or insoluble, each of which affects our digestion differently. Most fiber-rich foods contains a mixture of both. Roughage is understood to be an essential part of any healthy diet plan. Its main function is to add bulk to the diet, which in turn aids in the digestion process and healthy function of the bowel system. There are many different sources of roughage like fruit, whole grains and every type of vegetables. There are two basic reasons that people should be sure that they have enough roughage in their diet. First, many of the foods that contain this bulk can help an individual to feel full more quickly. This can help to minimize the chances of overeating, and help people who are trying to lose weight. Second, because some types of fiber cannot be totally absorbed by the body, the unused portion of the material helps to clean out the digestive tract and bowel. The cleaning action helps to keep these vital areas less susceptible to infection and disease and aids in overall health.