Pectin, gums, and mucilage increase gastric emptying. Select one:
True
False
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: False
Explanation:
Pectin, gums, and mucilage are types of dietary fibers known for their gel-forming or viscous properties when they come into contact with water in the digestive tract. These fibers generally slow down gastric emptying rather than increase it. Gastric emptying refers to the process by which food passes from the stomach into the small intestine.
These soluble fibers absorb water and form a gel-like substance in the stomach. This gel increases the viscosity of the stomach contents, which delays the rate at which the stomach empties its contents into the small intestine. The slower gastric emptying prolongs digestion and absorption, which can have beneficial effects such as improved blood sugar control and increased feelings of fullness or satiety. This is particularly useful in managing conditions like diabetes and obesity.
Additionally, by slowing gastric emptying, these fibers help regulate the release of nutrients into the small intestine, contributing to more stable blood glucose levels and improved lipid profiles. In contrast, insoluble fibers tend to increase stool bulk and speed up intestinal transit time but do not have a significant effect on gastric emptying.
Therefore, instead of increasing gastric emptying, pectin, gums, and mucilage actually reduce the rate at which food leaves the stomach. This physiological effect is important for digestive health and metabolic regulation.
In summary, pectin, gums, and mucilage decrease gastric emptying by forming viscous gels that slow down the stomach’s emptying process.