1. A Strong Molecule
Cellulose is a long chain, or polymer, of glucose molecules connected by beta glycosidic bonds. The term "glycosidic" refers to the fact that the bonds are between two sugars, and "beta" refers to the way in which the molecules are linked (as opposed to "alpha" bonds, for example). Cellulose is a strong molecule used in many industrial applications, from paper to textiles laboratory supplies. Though can be produced without biological processes now, this is not necessary. Cellulose is the major structural component of the cell walls of many plants, and is among the most abundant biological molecules on Earth. Cotton, for example, is composed of 90 percent cellulose, and wood is 50 percent cellulose.
2. Most Animals Can't Digest Cellulose
Glucose is the major unit of chemical energy in biology, so most animals have enzymes that allow them to digest starch, another common glucose polymer which uses alpha linkages. Cellulose, however, has the glucose molecules linked in a different way than starch, so these same enzymes cannot break down the beta bonds of cellulose to release the glucose for energy.
3. Ruminant Animals Digest Cellulose with Bacteria
Ruminant animals (those with more than one stomach, such as cows or deer) and termites have microorganisms living in their guts that secrete special enzymes that are able to digest cellulose. These animals swallow their cellulose-rich meal (such as grass or tree bark) and then regurgitate it after the enzymes are mixed with it. They chew the "cud," as it is called, to stimulate digestion before swallowing it again.
4. Dietary Fiber: Why Cellulose Is Worth It
Dietary fibers are any parts of plant foods that are not digested, including cellulose. These can be broken down into soluble and insoluble fiber, each with its own health benefits. Cellulose is an insoluble fiber--it does not easily dissolve in water. The main benefit of insoluble fiber like cellulose is that it helps to move bulk through the intestines, and thus is useful to prevent or treat constipation. Another benefit not fully understood yet is that insoluble fiber seems to decrease the risk of colorectal cancer. This may be because it helps to regulate the pH (acidity) in the intestines, which prevents microorganisms from producing carcinogenic compounds.
5. Find Your Fiber
So where should you go to get some good insoluble fiber? Many vegetables contain cellulose, including green beans and leafy vegetables like kale, cabbage and lettuce. The skins of fruit and root vegetables also contain cellulose, as do whole wheat products, seeds, and nuts. As always, make sure you consult your health care professional before making any radical changes to your diet, since individual metabolisms may vary.
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