UPSC-CMS 2010 — Physiology

Q: With reference to the role of fibre in diet, consider the following statements: 1. It inhibits faecal mutagen synthesis. 2. It reduces post-prandial glucose. 3. It decreases the transit time of food in the bowel. Which of the above represent(s) the role of fibre in our diet?

1, 2 and 3. ***1, 2 and 3*** - Dietary fiber aids in reducing the formation of **faecal mutagens** by diluting their concentration and promoting their excretion, thereby lowering the risk of colorectal cancer. - Fiber, especially **soluble fiber**, slows down the absorption of glucose from the digestive tract, which helps in reducing **post-prandial glucose** spikes and improving glycemic control. - It increases stool bulk and softness, which **decreases the transit time** of food through the bowel, preventing constipation and reducing exposure to potential toxins. *1 only* - This option is incomplete as it only includes the benefit of inhibiting faecal mutagen synthesis and ignores other established physiological roles of dietary fiber. - While fiber does inhibit faecal mutagen synthesis, it also has significant impacts on glucose metabolism and gut motility. *2 only* - This option is also incomplete, focusing solely on the reduction of post-prandial glucose. - It overlooks the crucial roles of fiber in gut health, such as inhibiting mutagen synthesis and regulating bowel transit time. *1 and 2 only* - This option recognizes the role of fiber in both **faecal mutagen synthesis** and **post-prandial glucose** control but fails to acknowledge its critical function in maintaining regular bowel movements. - Dietary fiber is well-known for its laxative effect and its ability to **decrease transit time**, which is a fundamental benefit for digestive health. [Practice more Physiology PYQs on OnCourse]

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With reference to the role of fibre in diet, consider the following statements: 1. It inhibits faecal mutagen synthesis. 2. It reduces post-prandial glucose. 3. It decreases the transit time of food in the bowel. Which of the above represent(s) the role of fibre in our diet?