NANP Board Practice Exam

What is hemicellulose classified as?

1. Dietary fiber

2. Functional fiber

3. Protein

4. Vitamin

The correct answer is: Dietary fiber

Hemicellulose is classified as dietary fiber. This classification is accurate because hemicellulose is a component of plant cell walls that contributes to the fiber content of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is predominantly made up of a variety of sugar monomers, which makes it indigestible by human enzymes and thus beneficial for digestive health. This classification connects hemicellulose to dietary fiber's roles, such as promoting gut health, regulating bowel movements, and helping to maintain a healthy weight and cholesterol levels. It is recognized as an important part of a balanced diet, contributing to overall nutritional health. Functional fiber, on the other hand, specifically refers to isolated or extracted fibers that have beneficial physiological effects in humans. While hemicellulose may have health benefits, it is primarily found in whole foods rather than in isolated forms, making it more accurately categorized under dietary fiber rather than functional fiber.