GLOSSARY

Total Fiber is an aggregate term whose precise meaning depends on the framework. Some sources mean dietary plus functional fibre; it should not automatically be equated with every label's fibre figure without checking the definition.

In the US Institute of Medicine's proposed terminology, total fibre combines intrinsic dietary fibre and isolated functional fibre with demonstrated benefit. Not all countries use these terms in the same way. Before adding values, identify which fractions a label or analysis already includes so the same material is not counted twice.

Dietary fibre comprises components resistant to small-intestinal digestion and absorption, with definitions and analytical methods differing between authorities. Some definitions admit isolated or manufactured carbohydrates when beneficial physiological effects are demonstrated. Being non-digestible alone does not automatically qualify an ingredient as declared fibre in every labelling framework.

Solubility, viscosity and fermentability are separate properties. Inulin can be soluble, low-viscosity and readily fermented; psyllium forms gels but is generally less fermented. Two ingredients described as soluble fibre therefore need not produce the same intestinal consistency, gas production or post-meal response.

If added yoghurt fibre is already included in the label's total, adding it again double-counts it. An athlete's record needs consistent per-serving quantities, serving counts and definitions. Total grams alone do not describe fibre type, viscosity or tolerance.

Plant foods usually contain mixtures of fibre types. Oats are not only beta-glucan and wheat bran is not only cellulose; amounts change with variety and processing. A food name does not quantify every fraction, and findings for a purified fibre cannot simply be assigned in full to that food.

WHO's general guidance for people older than 10 is at least 25 grams of naturally occurring dietary fibre per day. This is not a target to consume immediately before competition and does not establish that every athlete needs a fibre supplement. Actual intake belongs alongside adequate energy, tolerance and the whole eating pattern.

Increasing fibre works best with tolerable amounts, time to adapt and appropriate fluids. Suddenly adding several high-fibre products can cause bloating or altered bowel habits. The aim is a suitable combination of foods and timing; discomfort after one large serving is no reason to exclude every fibre source permanently.