Can I take a fiber supplement to meet my fiber goal every day?
I don’t recommend it. I love how Carolyn Williams, PhD, RD explains it below.
“Research suggests that aiming to meet fiber needs—or at least a large portion—through naturally occurring fiber in foods is ideal. The health recommendation to eat a “higher-fiber diet” isn’t just to encourage people to hit their daily quota of fiber grams, but also to promote improvements in overall eating. When food choices focus on getting fiber, an individual typically consumes fewer calories, chooses foods that have a lower glycemic index, consumes more whole foods like fruits and vegetables (and thus more nutrients), and consumes fewer processed foods. Relying primarily on supplements or fortified foods means missing out on these things. So, while you may be getting plenty of fiber, overall diet quality hasn’t improved. Also, most research looking at health benefits is based on higher dietary or intact fiber intake, so consuming functional fibers doesn’t necessarily guarantee the same outcomes.”