2024 Author: Jasmine Walkman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 08:29
Cellulose is a water-insoluble compound that participates in the composition of the cell membrane of plants. Cellulose itself is a very large molecule, consisting of thousands of glucose units linked together by very strong chemical bonds, stronger than those in starch.
Cellulose refers to the group of fibers to which, in addition, pectin, lignin, gelatin and mucous substances belong. Cellulose is the main part of the plant cell. The plant mass consists of 40 to 70% cellulose, which contains more than half the amount of carbon in the biosphere.
Cellulose is composed of polymers of D and b-glucose. The breakdown of cellulose is important for the carbon cycle in nature.
Cellulose it is not broken down by digestive enzymes in the human body, but some enzymes in the gut produce a specific enzyme - cellulase, which digests cellulose to soluble substances that are partially absorbed in the lower parts of the digestive tract.
The main function of cellulose is to stimulate intestinal peristalsis. It has a lower effect on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism compared to pectin, but on the other hand it has an excellent effect on the secretory and motor function of the intestine and stomach. Thus, cellulose helps to reduce serum lipids (triglycerides and cholesterol) and normalizes impaired glucose tolerance in people with diabetes and insulin resistance.
Sources of cellulose
The softer the cellulose, the better for the stomach. This is the cellulose in most garden vegetables and potatoes. Pumpkin is an indispensable source of nutrients and cellulose. Other such foods are bran, cereals, legumes, lettuce, cabbage, rye and wholemeal bread. The fruits are extremely rich in cellulose.
In some products that contain cellulose there is also lactose, which is needed to maintain balance in the intestinal flora. These are zucchini, pineapple, papaya, fresh and dried apricots, asparagus, black currants, blueberries, broccoli, lettuce, cauliflower and turnips. By consuming these products you will not only get the necessary amount of cellulose, but you will also prevent the appearance of dysbacteriosis.
Benefits of cellulose
Cellulose is extremely important for the work of the stomach and for the motor function of the intestine. It is also important for the circulatory system. Cellulose binds to cholesterol and prevents its absorption into the intestines, and hence into the bloodstream.
An incredible advantage of cellulose is that it is processed slowly in the body, and the products that contain it are low in calories - it creates a feeling of satiety without consuming many calories.
The presence of cellulose in food is vital for maintaining excellent health and optimal body weight. It has a mild diuretic effect because it helps to excrete sodium and water. On the other hand, it is a source of potassium and essential vitamins.
Cellulose foods are extremely valuable in the fight against constipation. This condition is not only unpleasant but also extremely harmful to the body. Through regular consumption of these foods, peristalsis is enhanced and the intestines are released.
Harm from cellulose
Vegetable cellulose in garden vegetables is tender, but in some cases irritates the gastrointestinal mucosa. Cabbage, cucumbers and lettuce contain rougher cellulosewhich can cause unpleasant symptoms - bloating, cramps, gas and increased abdominal pressure. Cellulose foods are not recommended for some stomach ailments. If you notice irritation or unpleasant stomach pain after eating cellulose foods, it is best to change your diet for a few weeks and consult a doctor.
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