21 February 2026
In the latest video from New Scientist, the discussion revolves around the trending concept of "fibremaxxing," a wellness movement gaining traction on platforms like TikTok. The video dives into the importance of increasing fiber intake, especially considering that a staggering 96% of the UK population is not meeting the recommended daily fiber intake of 25 to 35 grams.
Fibremaxxing encourages individuals to push their fiber consumption to and beyond the recommended levels by incorporating fiber-rich foods into every meal and snack. The video emphasizes that a high-fiber diet is not just a trend but a crucial aspect of maintaining long-term health.
The creator highlights several key health benefits associated with a high-fiber diet:
Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Consuming over 25 grams of fiber daily can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, strokes, type 2 diabetes, and colon cancer. Even an additional 7 grams of fiber can make a notable difference in reducing these risks.
Physical Properties of Fiber: Fiber helps retain and absorb water, which contributes to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction. It also absorbs fat, glucose, and cholesterol, and aids in digestion by lubricating stool.
Gut Health: The video explains how fiber supports the gut microbiome. The fermentation of fiber produces short-chain fatty acids that release appetite-suppressing hormones and maintain gut barrier function, reducing inflammation.
While the video acknowledges that increasing fiber intake can lead to initial digestive discomfort, it reassures viewers that excess fiber is less concerning than insufficient fiber. Unless someone has specific bowel issues like Crohn's disease or IBS, they can safely increase their fiber intake. However, there may be a point where additional fiber does not provide further benefits.
The video offers several actionable steps for those looking to boost their fiber consumption:
Incorporate Whole Foods: Focus on whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, pulses, and whole grains. These provide a diverse range of dietary fibers that are beneficial for health.
Utilize Resistant Starch: A fun fact shared in the video is that white rice and pasta, when cooled, form resistant starch, a type of fiber that remains intact even when reheated.
Avoid Processed Fiber: The fiber added to processed foods or supplements does not offer the same health benefits as the fiber found in whole foods.
In conclusion, the New Scientist video on fibremaxxing serves as a compelling reminder of the importance of fiber in our diets. By making simple changes and focusing on whole foods, we can significantly improve our health and well-being. If you're looking to enhance your diet, consider these tips and start incorporating more fiber into your meals today!
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