What Kind and How Much Fiber in Lettuce and Celery?

Darrell Miller

10/01/11

Date: October 01, 2011 11:47 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Kind and How Much Fiber in Lettuce and Celery?

Fiber is a substance which cannot be absorbed by the body. It comes in two forms, soluble and insoluble. It only helps the body clean the digestive tract from toxins and adds bulk to the stool. Fiber is important because it has many health benefits aside from its primary advantage on the colon. Fruits and vegetables are great sources of fiber. In this article, we will be discussing on Celery and Lettuce.

Celery is a best source of insoluble fiber. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water. This fiber makes passing of stool regular by way of adding more bulk to the stool and making it soft. It also absorbs more water and eliminates harmful chemicals in the colon. Unlike soluble fiber, this fiber increases the rate of movement of food particles in the gastrointestinal tract. If soluble fiber slows the absorption rate of fatty acids and cholesterol, insoluble fiber slows down the absorption of glucose. The greatest sources of insoluble fiber are wheat bran and whole grains.

Celery is becoming a popular staple vegetable along with carrots, parsley and potatoes. It has a crunchy texture and unique flavor which makes it very good for salads and certain recipes. The stalk of the celery can reach up to 12 to 16 inches in height and has a head packed with leaves in conical shape.

Lettuce, on the other hand, contains both soluble and insoluble fiber but more on the former. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and converts into a substance that seems like a gel. This gel – like substance slows the rate of stomach emptying. This kind of fiber attaches to fat molecules in the stomach therefore it is useful in lowering total cholesterol levels. Aside from cholesterol, it also helps in regulating blood sugar levels.

Lettuce is a member of the family of daisies called Asteraceae. It is usually cultivated as a vegetable and can be consumed either raw or cooked dishes. Lettuce is a common ingredient among many salads, burgers, sandwiches and the like. It is also popular in many Chinese food recipes such as Fried Lettuce Wraps. This is great for salads because it has a cooling effect to the other ingredients of your salad. It also has a bland but refreshing flavor therefore it does not leave an aftertaste to your salad. Lettuce contains small amount of calories therefore it is food for individuals who are on weight loss regimen. This plant is a good source of vitamin A and folic acid. During the ancient times, Romans and Egyptians consume lettuce to provide relaxation and induce sleep.

A cup of lettuce consists of 0.8 grams of fiber with 5 calories while a quarter of a cup of raw celery has 2 grams and 5 calories. Cooked celery contains 4 and a half calories and 1.5 grams of fiber. If fiber is consumed for weight loss regimen, it is important that you should have a regular exercise and lifestyle modification. Avoid high fat and high calorie together with high fiber foods so that weight will be controlled.