What specific type of fiber, known to increase bowel movement frequency, is found in cucumbers?
Answer
Pectin
The digestive benefits of cucumbers are supported by both their high water and fiber content working synergistically. Specifically, the soluble fiber component identified in cucumbers is called pectin. Pectin is highly beneficial for gut health because it performs several functions: it can significantly increase the regularity and frequency of bowel movements, thereby aiding in the prevention of constipation linked to dehydration. Furthermore, pectin serves as a prebiotic, meaning it acts as a food source for beneficial bacteria residing in the gut microbiome, ultimately leading to an overall improvement in digestive wellness.
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