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In recent years, there’s been a renewed focus on how everyday choices shape long-term health. As diet trends continue to evolve, many people are rethinking their approach to food, seeking simple and sustainable habits that support overall well-being.
One trend, which illustrates the shift towards mindful, intentional eating is emerging. Fibermaxxing is a viral movement on social media that encourages people to increase their fiber intake, CNBC reports. Read ahead for the full scoop on this new food trend.
The Importance of Fiber in the Diet
Fiber is common in plant-based foods. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes all contain the nutrient. Consuming sufficient fiber is associated with improved digestion and a lower risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
“Fiber is considered a nutrient of public health concern. Most Americans are not meeting the recommendation,” Mia Syn, a registered dietitian and author, tells CNBC.
However, the trend could make a difference. Fibermaxxing “encourages maximizing fiber intake in meals and snacks to promote digestive health and overall well-being,” Sara K. Riehm, a dietitian, tells Women’s Health.
Benefits of Fibermaxxing
There is an array of benefits to a high-fiber diet. “This is one of the safer nutrition trends I’ve seen,” Riehm says. “It’s focused on consuming nutrient-dense foods and including more of one of the most beneficial components of our diet,” she adds. Consuming sufficient fiber can support a healthy metabolism, aid in digestion, and help with regulating hormone levels.
There are two general categories of fiber, each associated with different beneficial side effects. Soluble fiber digests at a slower pace, which can keep blood sugar levels stable. It can also bind with cholesterol, preventing it from being absorbed. Insoluble fiber speeds up digestion — therefore consuming it can stave off constipation.
Getting Started With Fibermaxxing
To increase the fiber in your diet, add high-fiber foods like brown rice, oats, nuts, berries, chia seeds, lentils, and beans, according to CNBC. You can also obtain fiber from supplements, however, Syn says “The best way to get fiber, and any sort of nutrient, is from food.”
Another thing to note when fibermaxxing is how much of the nutrient you consume. According to a study published in Nutrients, excessive amounts of fiber can lead to bloating and may disrupt the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients. So what is considered an excessive amount? Eating 70 grams of fiber daily may be too much, CNBC reports.
Whether you’re consuming the recommended amount of fiber or fibermaxxing, make sure to drink enough water. Otherwise, it can cause stomach cramps, bloating, gas, or digestive problems. Introducing additional fiber gradually into your diet can also help you avoid issues.
Lastly, it’s also important to speak to a doctor before deciding to consume a high level of fiber, as there are some digestive conditions that may be incompatible with a high-fiber diet.
Small changes can make a big difference when it comes to healthy eating. Fibermaxxing is an example of a simple-to-adopt, trending diet that may improve your health.
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