There are two different types of fiber – soluble and insoluble. Insoluble fiber, also known as roughage, does not dissolve in water, and therefore passes through the intestinal tract intact. Soluble fiber absorbs excess water in the colon, helping to regulate your system.

Carbohydrates are made of starch, sugar and fiber. Most people are aware that fiber is a healthy component of carbohydrates, contributes to increasing satiety, and can help you stay regular, improve your blood sugar and cholesterol levels and lose weight.

A colonoscopy requires the gastrointestinal tract to be empty and free of food and fluids. A change in your eating habits to a low-fiber diet is required several days before the procedure.

The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse describes a colonoscopy as an exam to view inside the colon and rectum. The exam takes little less than an hour, however you often need several days to prepare your intestinal tract.

Cellulose is the chemical name for fiber, which is an important component of diet, even though it doesn't provide you with any vitamins, minerals or energy. Many foods -- especially whole foods -- contain cellulose.

Dietary fiber is the undigested portion of plants that provide bulk to your diet and your stools.

You can’t really have a fiber deficiency, per se, since your body doesn’t absorb it and there isn’t a way to measure how much you have in your body. But it is possible to have too little fiber in your diet.

Flax seeds are a source of healthy fats, fiber and phytochemicals. You must consume flaxseeds ground to benefit from their nutrients. You can incorporate ground flaxseed into baked goods, smoothies, cereal or on salads.

Many people include tuna in their diets. It provides high quality protein, and it is rich in niacin, vitamins B-6 and B-12 and selenium. You need to get fiber in your diet, too. While tuna itself does not provide you with this nutrient, it is possible to take in fiber while eating tuna.

Most children, teens and adults in the United States don't get enough fiber, reports the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. A diet that lacks adequate fiber may increase your risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, obesity, digestive disorders and cancer.

Erosive gastritis eats away at the lining of your stomach, causing ulcers and bleeding. A diet high in fiber may prevent complications caused by erosive gastritis.

The term "fructans" refers to two types of soluble fiber -- inulin and oligofructose. Fructans are found naturally in a few foods and added to many others to increase their fiber content without greatly changing their taste and texture.