Fiber, otherwise known as roughage, is the part of the plant that cannot be digested. It pushes through the digestive system and absorbs water and helps ease bowel movement. There are two main types of fiber-- soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber that is found mostly in fruits like apples, oranges and mangoes and in vegetables like zucchini, Brussels sprouts and broccoli acts to bind the fatty acids and slows down the rate of sugar absorption in the body. By slowing down the time it takes to empty food from the stomach, soluble fiber makes one fuller for longer, making it an important component in any weight loss program. Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, moves bulk through the intestine, keeping bowel movements regular and more frequent. Green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds are good sources of insoluble fiber.

Most fruits and vegetables can either be classified as soluble or insoluble. Oat fiber, however, is chockfull of both types, making it a "complete" form of fiber that is beneficial to health. Whether they are whole, rolled or made as oatmeal, both soluble and insoluble fiber sources are found in them.

One of the most common benefits of fiber is in the area of regular bowel movements. Oat fiber helps stool pass easily through the anus without straining. By doing so, chronic constipation that can lead to a host of digestive disorders such as diverticulosis and hemorrhoids, just to name two, are prevented. More importantly, fiber also works in keeping the pH level of the intestines. When the pH levels remain normal, the growth of microbes that eventually cause colorectal cancer are prevented. Toxic waste is also eliminated from the colon faster, also ensuring that there is no build up of excess waste there that can later lead to sickness.

Oats are also good for the heart. When you take in oats, bile acids from your small intestine join together with digestive enzymes. As a result, the bile acids circulating freely around the intestines decrease, forcing the liver to use cholesterol so more acids can be digested for your next meal. As more cholesterol is used up by the liver, it also absorbs more "bad" cholesterol circulating in your blood which results in decreasing your total cholesterol and "bad" cholesterol levels. When your total blood cholesterol gets lowered, you also lessen your risk for cardiovascular problems. It also lowers your chances of suffering from stroke.

Another benefit that can be derived from oat fiber consumption is in the area of weight management and sugar control. By slowing down absorption, you feel fuller for longer, minimizing spikes in blood sugar that usually happen with simple sugars. This is particularly helpful for those trying to control their glucose levels like diabetics. It is also an essential part of a dieter's meal plan so that weight loss is achieved at a much faster pace.

In order to increase your intake of oat fiber, don't just stop at having oatmeal for breakfast. You can get creative and sprinkle whole oats on your non fat yogurt or make delectable recipes combining bran in fruits and soups.