What are the effects on human body if humans start digesting Cellulose?
If humans were able to digest cellulose, it would have several significant effects on the human body:
1. Expanded Food Options: Cellulose is a major component of plant cell walls, making it an abundant source of fiber. If humans could break down cellulose, they would have access to a wider variety of edible plants, including leaves, stems, and husks that are currently indigestible. This could potentially increase food security and nutrition, especially in areas with limited access to traditional food sources.
2. Improved Nutrient Absorption: Cellulose acts as a bulking agent in the diet, promoting satiety and aiding in digestion. By digesting cellulose, humans could extract additional nutrients from plant foods. This enhanced nutrient absorption could positively impact overall health and well-being.
3. Regularity and Gut Health: Cellulose has been shown to contribute to digestive regularity and prevent constipation. As a source of insoluble fiber, cellulose helps maintain the health of the digestive tract by promoting smooth bowel movements and preventing the accumulation of waste materials.
4. Prebiotic Effects: Like other dietary fibers, cellulose can act as a prebiotic. It serves as a food source for beneficial gut bacteria, promoting the growth of probiotics. A healthier gut microbiome has numerous benefits for human health, including improved digestion, immune function, and overall metabolism.
5. Potential Challenges: While digesting cellulose could have various health benefits, it could also present some challenges. The human digestive system lacks the necessary enzymes to break down cellulose effectively, which is why humans currently cannot digest it. To gain the ability to digest cellulose, significant evolutionary adaptations or genetic modifications would be required, potentially bringing other unforeseen consequences.
It's important to note that genetic modifications and major physiological shifts such as being able to digest cellulose are complex topics that require extensive scientific research and understanding of the potential risks and benefits before any implementation.