Nutritional effects Of Hemicelluloses
Hemicelluloses are classified under the category of soluble dietary fibers. Hemicellulose is an indigestible complex carbohydrate that absorbs water. It is good for promoting weight loss, relieving constipation and controlling carcinogens in the intestinal tract. A commercial product (β-glucans based) possess the ability to reduce serum cholesterol. Oat and barley β-glucans when taken in foods reduce postprandial serum glucose levels; reduce insulin response and serum cholesterol levels. Hemicellulose can be converted to a number of value-added fermentation products such as fuel ethanol, xylitol, butanediol, and lactic acid.