So Is ‘Fibremaxxing’ Just… Eating More Fibre?

Fibremaxxing is a social media phenomenon that encourages the maximisation of fibre intake to promote a wide range of health benefits. While this practice is trending on social media now, it is not a new concept.

To put it simply, the goal of fibremaxxing is to meet or exceed the recommended daily fibre intake, which is roughly between 25 and 35 grams for most adults. It’s estimated that only 5% of people get enough fibre in their daily diets, and so health experts are rather optimistic about this online trend of promoting its importance.

According to research and input from professionals, fibremaxxing is safe, and is one of the rare social media health trends that nutrition and health experts endorse – if done correctly and in accordance with guidelines.

What are the benefits of fibre?

Fibre is a non-digestible carbohydrate that is found in plant-based foods such as fruit, vegetables and grain. The general intake of fibre, or fibremaxxing, comes with many benefits that are essential for our digestive and overall health.

Fibre regulates blood sugar, protects heart health, boosts and supports digestion, promotes satiety, can lower cholesterol and can help with weight management.

@dr.karanr Fiber-maxxing! @LOAM ♬ original sound – Dr Karan Rajan

Important things to consider before fibermaxxing

1. If you are looking to promptly increase your fibre intake, keep in mind that introducing more fibre-rich foods into your diet too fast and in excessive amounts – can cause gastrointestinal issues like bloating and disrupt the absorption of nutrients such as calcium. To avoid discomfort, make sure to add these fibre-rich foods to your diet slowly and in moderation.

2. Hydration is vital when you’re upping your fibre intake. If you aren’t drinking enough water while fibremaxxing, you can trigger abdominal cramps, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating or gas.

3. If you are looking to take daily fibre powder supplements, make sure to start with a dose that is slightly lower-than-recommended and gradually build up your dosage over time to avoid digestive issues. It’s also greatly advised to get input from your doctor before taking such dietary supplements.

@stephgrassodietitian since fibermaxxing is trending right now (which is a trend I support), it’s important to SLOWLY start adding fiber into your diet to give your digestive system time to adapt. Jumping from a low-fiber diet to a high-fiber one too quickly can lead to bloating, gas and cramping. Also the more fiber you add, the more water you need! #fiber #dietitian #nutritiontip ♬ original sound – Lewky____

You don’t have to look far to find food rich in fibre to start your fibremaxxing journey…

Foods rich in fibre

• Cereal
• Apples
• Nuts
• Raspberries
• Blueberries
• Sweet potato
• bBans
• Lentils
• Broccoli
• Oats
• Whole-grain bread
• Brown rice
• Avocados
• Carrots
• Corn
• Brussels sprouts

Once you follow this practice with great care and in accordance with the evidence-based guidelines, fibremaxxing is ultimately safe for your diet.

With the input from health experts and dietary professionals, it’s become clear that fibremaxxing is a trend that is proven beneficial… and is actually recommended!

Words by Leah Foran