Psyllium is which type of dietary fiber?

• A. Soluble fiber
• B. Insoluble fiber
• C. Mixed fiber
• D. Non-fiber carbohydrate

Answer: (A)

Psyllium is soluble fiber because it dissolves in water and forms a viscous gel. This gel-forming property slows digestion and helps with cholesterol lowering by binding bile acids, which are typical effects of soluble, viscous fibers. Insulating it as insoluble fiber wouldn’t capture its gel-forming behavior or its impact on cholesterol and glucose absorption. Mixed fiber would imply a substantial amount of both types, which isn’t the classic classification for psyllium. Non-fiber carbohydrate isn’t correct since psyllium is a true dietary fiber.