How Much Fiber You Need Is a Loaded Question With a Simpl...

What’s Happening

Breaking it down: You want to talk about fiber ?

The most booooooring nutrient apart from maybe potassium (maybe)? Well, all due credit to you, because most people want nothing to do with fiber. (wild, right?)

The average American has long struggled to consume enough of the nutrient—and that’s across races and ethnicities.

The Details

Which is a real shame because fiber is a nutritional powerhouse beloved in scientific research. Through decades of studies, scientists have found that a diet rich in fiber can improve your heart health , prevent and manage diabetes , maintain a healthy weight , keep you regular , and generally help you feel more awesome.

And fiber is so much more than boring ol’ prunes and Metamucil. Fiber is dark leafy greens, whole grains, nuts, legumes, seeds, all kinds of potatoes —deeply satisfying, stomach-patting foods that fill you up.

Why This Matters

Now, how much fiber you actually need is somewhat controversial (see, drama! ), but the short answer is that you need more . FIBER IS A type of carbohydrate (!

Medical professionals are taking note of this development.

Key Takeaways

• Not to get too geeky on you, but there are technically two types of fiber—and each have different functions.
• Insoluble fiber: “Insoluble” meaning it doesn’t dissolve in water.
• This is fiber found in produce, nuts, and Colon Blow —it increases the bulk of your stool as well as feelings of fullness.

The Bottom Line

You’ll find it in beans , seeds, and berries. Research has shown that regularly consuming a diet high in insoluble and soluble fiber can lower blood pressure , LDL cholesterol, diabetes risk, and even some cancers .

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