How Much Fiber Do I Need?
The Daily Reference Intake, formerly known as the Recommended Daily Allowance, for fiber ranges from 25-38 grams per day. It is estimated that Americans only consume about half of the recommended amount of fiber in their diet. The Harvard Institute of Medicine recommends that adults should consume about 14 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories of food they eat. Most people vary in their caloric intake, and this formula is an easy way to figure out what your daily fiber intake should be. A person who consumes a 2,000 calorie diet should get at least 28 grams of fiber daily.
Eating a diet high in fiber-rich foods will help you meet your daily fiber requirements. You can easily switch to whole-grain products and add more fruits and vegetables, which are rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber. If it is difficult to get enough fiber through the foods you eat, you should consider a dietary supplement for fiber. Metamucil products are made from psyllium husk, which is a great source of soluble fiber that may help lower blood cholesterol levels. Metamucil fiber products are offered as drink mixes, capsules and wafers to accommodate all preferences.
If you are one of the many Americans who lack in meeting daily fiber requirements, consider a fiber supplement to increase your intake. Please note that you should not drastically increase your fiber intake overnight. This should be a gradual process to prevent stomach discomfort as your digestive system adjusts to the change in diet.
Sources:
"The Nutrition Source Daily Fiber Requirements". Harvard School of Public Health. http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/fiber-table/index.html> 16 August 2010.
"Dietary Fiber: Daily Reference Intakes (DRIs) for Fiber". < http://www.dietaryfiberfood.com/fiber-rda.php> 16 August 2010.
Published by Leslie Reese, Nutritional Educator
Leslie is a wife and mother of two children. She graduated from the Global College of Natural Medicine and is currently practicing as a Nutritional Educator. She enjoys spending time with her family and wo... View profile
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