THE LAXATIVE ACTION OF BRAN
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Excerpt
The bulky intestinal residue produced by indigestible food ingredients undoubtedly can play a part in promoting the motor activities of the digestive tract. Hence "roughage" or "ballast" in the food intake has come to be regarded as a prophylactic against certain types of constipation. There are scientists who might debate whether the alleged need of bulk in the diet and its consequent influence on the intestinal functions has not been overemphasized in recent years. Writing several years ago, the author of "Useful Cathartics," published under the auspices of the American Medical Association,1 remarks: "The 'back to nature' cry of the health faddist need not lead us to the habitual admixture of sawdust, bran or similar substances to our food. When, however, there is constipation, the question whether increase in cellulose is indicated is important. Unless the patient is of the type characterized by excessive digestion of cellulose and flatulence
