Cereal Chem 58:2 - 5.  |  VIEW ARTICLE
Effect of Diet Fiber Level on Bowel Function and Trace Mineral Balances of Human Subjects.

J. L. Kelsay. Copyright 1981 by the American Association of Cereal Chemists, Inc. 

A review of the literature dealing with effects of fiber on bowel function and trace mineral balances of human subjects was conducted. Fiber in the diet decreased bowel transit times of subjects with long transit times. Fiber increased number of stools, fecal weight, and fecal excretions of energy, nitrogen, and fat. In most studies, fiber did not affect the iron balance. However, fiber decreased zinc and copper balances in some studies. Some investigators reported high correlations of fecal fiber with fecal minerals. Significant positive correlations of fecal minerals with fecal weight and fecal fiber may indicate binding of minerals by fiber. In addition to levels of fiber intake, levels of trace mineral intakes, phytic acid, and other dietary components probably influenced the trace mineral balances in the studies reviewed. Length of time of the studies must also be considered. Further study of the factors affecting trace mineral balances is needed.