Youve surely heard all about fiber and its many virtues.
But how much should you actually be eatingespecially if your main goal is to go to the bathroom regularly?
Heres the deal on how much fiber you actually need to be eating.
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We need fiber in our diets for a few reasons.
First and foremost is thepoopingaspect,obviously.
Insoluble fiber is especially critical in this regard.
Softer stools and more consistent bowel movements, Dr. Lee says.
Fiber is beneficial in other ways, too.
How much fiber you need
Now, the answer youre here for.
TheDietary Guidelinescorrelate your optimal fiber intake with your caloric intake.
They say people should get about 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories in their diet.
Now, remember that the Dietary Guidelines are just that: guidelines, not rules.
Some of this is just individual variation.
Your gut might be more or less sensitive to fiber than other peoples, Dr. Lee says.
There are also lifestyle factors that can affect your fiber requirements in the short or long term.
One is your activity level, because exercise can help move digestion along.
And there are some medical factors to consider.
Having any kind of GI condition candefinitelyaffect your ideal fiber intake in either direction, Dr. Lee says.
Same goes for any non-GI condition that affects your digestive system.
That same person may also enjoy regular exercise.
But we do know that fiber has positive effects on LDL cholesterol and blood sugar control.
While we know that too little fiber is problematic, is there such a thing as toomuchfiber?
(This changes if you have some kind of GI or other medical condition.)
In reality, most of us arent eating enough fiber.
National Library of Medicine, the average American gets just 16 grams of fiber a day.
In fact, the U.S. (The same applies to other grain-based foods, like rye bread: Look for whole rye flour.)
Take it easy as you ramp up your fiber content, though.
And remember, see to it to be drinking plenty of water.
Its also great in a pinch if youre experiencing constipation, Dr. Lee says.
And definitely consult your doctor first if you have aGI condition.
Plus, the real stuff just tastes so much better.
