Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What distinguishes soluble fiber from other types of fiber?

1. It is only found in vegetables

2. It cannot be digested by humans

3. It dissolves in water to form a viscous gel

4. It is primarily made of cellulose

The correct answer is: It dissolves in water to form a viscous gel

The correct answer highlights that soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a viscous gel. This characteristic is essential because soluble fiber plays a significant role in various health benefits, including helping to lower blood cholesterol levels and regulating blood sugar levels. When soluble fiber is consumed, it interacts with water in the digestive tract, creating a gel-like substance that slows digestion and absorption. This process can lead to improved satiety and better management of health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. In contrast, other types of fiber, particularly insoluble fiber, do not dissolve in water and assist in adding bulk to stool, promoting regular bowel movements. The other options present misleading information: soluble fiber is not limited to vegetables, it indeed can be digested, albeit not to the same extent as other carbohydrates, and it is not primarily made of cellulose, which is a component of insoluble fiber. Therefore, the distinctive nature of soluble fiber lies in its ability to dissolve in water and form a gel, contributing to its unique functional properties in human health.