Final answer:
Fiber plays a crucial role in increasing fecal weight, increasing colonic transit, alleviating constipation, reducing the risk for diverticular disease, hemorrhoids, and appendicitis, providing bulk and feeling of fullness, and aiding in weight management.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fiber plays a crucial role in increasing fecal weight, increasing colonic transit, alleviating constipation, reducing the risk for diverticular disease, hemorrhoids, and appendicitis, providing bulk and feeling of fullness, and aiding in weight management. The two types of fiber, soluble and insoluble, have different effects on digestion. Soluble fiber, found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance in the intestines, increasing fecal weight and providing a feeling of fullness. Insoluble fiber, found in wheat bran, beans, and potatoes, adds bulk to the stool and helps prevent constipation.