percent in health terms dietary fiber is the most important component in food. soluble dietary fiber found in legumes binds water causing it to swell in your stomach and make you feel full in the large intestine bacteria break down fiber into short chain fatty acids that protect the intestinal membrane from harmful. this benefits the immune system a diet rich in fiber stimulates the intestines which can help reduce the risk of colon cancer dietary fiber also helps lower cholesterol levels. experts recommend that adults consume at least thirty grams of fiber daily. it can even help to keep you slim. when you eat pasta made of legumes. your blood sugar levels rise more slowly.