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dietary fiber
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Assorted piles of colorful lentils, beans, and chickpeas arranged closely together, showing a variety of shapes and colors including yellow, green, red, brown, and white.
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Assorted piles of colorful lentils, beans, and chickpeas arranged closely together, showing a variety of shapes and colors including yellow, green, red, brown, and white.
Legumes Legumes, including beans, chickpeas, and lentils, are a rich source of dietary fiber.

dietary fiber

nutrition
Also known as: roughage
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Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
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When your gut bacteria run out of fiber, they may start eating your gut lining • Nov. 9, 2026, 6:33 AM ET (Science Daily)

dietary fiber, Food material not digestible by the human small intestine and only partially digestible by the large intestine. Fiber is beneficial in the diet because it relieves and prevents constipation, appears to reduce the risk of colon cancer, and reduces plasma cholesterol levels and therefore the risk of heart disease. Fiber also slows gastric emptying and contributes to satiety. Whole grains, legumes, vegetables, nuts, and fruits are all good sources. See also nutrition.

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by Melissa Petruzzello.