For years, protein has been the buzzword in the health and fitness world, but over the past few months, fibre has taken centre stage on social media. With only 4% of us getting the recommended daily amount, this “unsexy nutrient” is finally getting the recognition it deserves.
Nutritionists and experts are thrilled to see the growing interest in fibre, as it offers a wealth of health benefits beyond just aiding digestion. According to Professor Kevin Whelan of King’s College London, people who consume more fibre-rich foods like brown rice and jacket potatoes are less likely to develop cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and conditions like diabetes. Some studies even suggest it can have a positive impact on mental health, helping to reduce anxiety and depression.
One such convert is Yeshe Sander, a 24-year-old from Birmingham, who noticed significant improvements in her physical and mental well-being after increasing her daily fibre intake to 30g. “Now I can see it so clearly: when I’m eating more fibre, my mental health gets better, and my anxiety and low mood is reduced,” she says.
Similarly, 25-year-old business owner Vicky Owen experienced a range of unexplained symptoms, including panic attacks and gastric issues, until she revamped her diet to include more fibre-rich foods. “My skin’s better, I’ve got more energy, and I think as a whole, everything’s so much more balanced now,” she says.
Experts recommend making small, sustainable changes to incorporate more fibre into your diet, such as swapping white bread for seeded wholegrain varieties, snacking on nuts and seeds instead of crisps, and adding avocado or hummus to your sandwiches. Dietitian Kate Hilton emphasises the importance of gradually increasing fibre intake to avoid any unpleasant side effects.
While the recent social media hype around fibre is a positive step, Cara Wheatley-McGrain of Mindful Gut cautions against putting too much pressure on young people, who are constantly bombarded with different dietary advice. “Add some fibre to your diet slowly, notice how it feels, and take it from there,” she advises.
With the mounting evidence supporting the wide-ranging health benefits of fibre, it’s clear that this once-overlooked nutrient deserves its moment in the spotlight. By making simple, sustainable changes to our diets, we can all reap the rewards of increased fibre consumption.
