Which of the following is a correct statement about fiber in the digestive system?

• A. Fiber provides a significant source of energy for the body.
• B. Fiber helps to regulate the body's use of sugars, helping to keep hunger and blood sugar in check.
• C. Fiber is completely digested and absorbed in the small intestine.
• D. Fiber is primarily broken down by stomach acids.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the role of fiber in the digestive system. Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. Unlike other carbohydrates, fiber passes through the digestive tract relatively intact.
2. Consider the statement that fiber provides a significant source of energy for the body. Since fiber is not digested and absorbed like other nutrients, it does not provide energy in the form of calories.
3. Evaluate the statement that fiber helps to regulate the body's use of sugars. Fiber can slow the absorption of sugar, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduce hunger, which is a correct function of fiber.
4. Analyze the statement that fiber is completely digested and absorbed in the small intestine. Fiber is not digested in the small intestine; instead, it moves into the large intestine where it can be partially fermented by gut bacteria.
5. Examine the statement that fiber is primarily broken down by stomach acids. Fiber is not broken down by stomach acids; it remains largely unchanged until it reaches the large intestine.