Can Fiber Cause Stomach Bloating?

Email from Anonymous

What is the deal with fiber and stomach bloating? I know fiber can help you lose weight but it seems to give me gas.

Lisa's Response

Certain foods contain soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves easily and turns into a gel-like texture when it reaches the intestines. It can be found in beans, oat bran, peas and the flesh of many fruits. Soluble does not break down until it reaches the large intestine. The digestion process causes gas.

Insoluble fiber, passes essentially unchanged through the intestines and produces little gas (if any). Seeds, nuts, berries, the skin of some fruits, whole grain cereals and pasta contain this kind of fiber.

It has also been found that once your body gets used to consuming fiber on a regular basis, the "gas effects" may decrease.