Answer :
Final answer:
Fiber, especially cellulose, adds bulk to facilitate bowel movements and supports digestion through aiding in nutrient absorption in the colon. It also promotes in moving undigested food through the colon and rectum. Moreover, a fiber-rich diet may reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Explanation:
Fiber, specifically cellulose, a polysaccharide found in plant-based foods, is essential to the health of the intestinal tract for several key reasons. First, because the enzymes required to digest cellulose are not produced in the human body, undigested fiber adds bulk to the food easing bowel movements, which can be beneficial in preventing constipation. In addition to easing bowel movements, fiber also aids the colon in processing food by adding bulk, which is indigestible, promoting healthy digestion and nutrient absorption through intestinal flora and peristalsis.
Moreover, undigested food is moved through the colon, where it is further broken down and most residual water, electrolytes, and vitamins produced by enteric bacteria are absorbed. Once the remaining food residue has transited through the colon, it is stored in the rectum until elimination through the anus.
Lastly, the fiber-rich diet is believed to reduce the risk of heart diseases and possibly some forms of cancer, according to studies by reputable organizations like Harvard School of Public Health.
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