Research Progress on the Chemical Composition and Intestinal Flora Regulation of Dietary Fiber from the Edible and Medicinal Plants

As a new nutrient, dietary fiber can play an important role in immunity and metabolism by regulating the structure of intestinal microflora. Edible and medicinal dietary fiber (EMDF) has the dual functions of strengthening the body with Chinese herbal medicine and promoting intestinal health with dietary fiber, which makes it different from ordinary dietary fiber. This paper summarizes the research progress of EMDF, analyzes its chemical composition, distribution characteristics and intestinal function, and focuses on the effect of EMDF on intestinal microflora structure and its action mechanism. This study would provide a theoretical basis for the development and utilization of EMDF in functional foods.