The term "dietary fiber" refers to a type of carbohydrate that is found in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Unlike other types of carbohydrates which are broken down into glucose for energy, dietary fibers do not get digested or absorbed by the body. Instead they pass through our system relatively unchanged, helping to regulate bowel movements and promote overall gut health. There are two main types of dietary fiber: soluble (which slows down digestion) and insoluble (which helps add bulk to stools).