Which of the following is a characteristic of soluble fiber?

The characteristic that soluble fiber can help lower cholesterol levels is well-established in nutrition science. Soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance in the digestive system. This process can bind to bile acids in the intestine, which are made from cholesterol. When soluble fiber helps to remove bile acids from the body, it prompts the liver to produce more bile acids using cholesterol, thus potentially leading to lower overall cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.

Soluble fiber is commonly found in foods such as oats, beans, apples, and citrus fruits. This connection between soluble fiber and cholesterol reduction plays a crucial role in heart health and is often a significant focus for dietary recommendations aimed at managing cholesterol levels.