Certain types of dietary fiber can increase intestinal motility.
Intestinal motility refers to the contractions of the muscles in your digestive tract, which move food and waste through your system. Several factors can influence this process. The provided reference highlights the role of dietary fiber, specifically:
- Insoluble Fiber: Insoluble fibers, such as wheat bran, increase intestinal motility, thereby accelerating gastrointestinal transit and increasing the frequency of stools.
Here's a breakdown of how fiber affects intestinal motility:
| Fiber Type | Effect on Motility | Example | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insoluble Fiber | Increases motility, speeds up transit time, increases stool frequency | Wheat bran | Adds bulk to the stool, stimulating the intestinal muscles to contract more frequently and forcefully. |
| Soluble Fiber | Indirectly increases stool volume, softens feces. | Psyllium | Absorbs water, expanding the volume of feces, making it easier to pass and indirectly influencing overall motility. |
While the provided reference only discusses fiber, it's important to note that other factors can also increase intestinal motility, such as certain medications, stress, and some medical conditions. However, based on the given context, the answer focuses on the role of fiber.
