From Instagram nutritionists to Reddit wellness posts, there's a new food trend taking hold by the name Fibremaxxing. This wellness trend is pictured as the ultimate shortcut to improved digestion, flatter bellies, and even radiant skin. By it’s definition, fibremaxxing is all about eating extremely high levels of dietary fibre, frequently and in excess of the recommended daily allowance.
However, is this gut-health hack really supported by science, or is it just one more virus-like fad with unforeseen side effects? In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, Dr Bhumesh Tyagi, Consultant, General Medicine and Physician, Shardacare, Health City, Noida, explained to us in detail. Here is what he shared with us so that you make an informed decision.
What Exactly Is Fibremaxxing?
Fibremaxxing is the act of consciously boosting fibre consumption up to the highest level possible. Its proponents state that it boosts satiety, enhances bowel regularity, and aids in a healthy gut microbiome. When we spoke to some who practice this trend, they also did for better mood, lessened sugar cravings, and accelerated fat loss. Here is what these people do:
- Eat 40 to 70 plus grams of fibre daily (compared to the recommended 25 to 38 grams)
- Stock up on psyllium husk, chia seeds, oat bran, legumes, and high-fibre vegetables
- Swap processed snack foods for fibre-enriched options
The trend has taken on legs online in the form of viral before-and-after photos, fibre challenge videos, and influencers extolling fibre as the unsung hero of well-being.
Why Does Fibre Matter?
Fibrr, particularly soluble and fermentable fibres, plays a significant role in the following:
- Regulating bowel movements
- Nourishing beneficial gut bacteria, which produce anti-inflammatory chemicals
- Reducing cholesterol levels
- Managing blood sugar surges
- Enhancing feelings of satiety, facilitating weight regulation
"Most individuals don't consume sufficient fibre. Modestly increasing it can enhance digestion, help the microbiome, and even lower risks of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease,” Dr Tyagi explained.
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Is Fibremaxxing A Boon Or Bane?
Possible Benefits Of Fibremaxxing
- Appetite Control: Fibre reduces digestion, curbing snacking and portion sizes.
- Digestive Regularity: Increased fibre tends to mean more regular bowel movements.
- Blood Sugar and Cholesterol: Soluble fibres such as psyllium have established benefits.
- Microbiome Support: Prebiotic fibres support gut bacteria that may influence mental and physical well-being.
Possible Drawbacks Of Fibremaxxing
- Bloating and Gas: Sudden fibre boosts may overburden your gut, causing discomfort.
- Constipation or Diarrhea: Without proper hydration, excess fibre can have the opposite effect.
- Nutrient Interference: Too much fibre can decrease absorption of minerals such as iron and zinc.
- Obsession and Orthorexia Risk: Fibremaxxing can lead to pathological eating habits when pushed to extremes.
Dr Tyagi advised, “Too much fibre, particularly added all at once, can do more harm than good. Gradual increments, diversity, and attending to your body are important."
Safe And Smart Fibremaxxing Tips (If You Experiment)
If you're interested in fibremaxxing, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Increase slowly: Add five to 10 grams weekly to prevent digestive discomfort.
- Stay hydrated: Drink at least eight to 10 glasses of water per day to ensure fibre glides through your system.
- Vary your sources: Don't just take supplements, eat fruits, veggies, legumes, and whole grains.
- Check on your body: Bloating, cramps, or altered stool quality are indicators to make a change.
- See a professional: Particularly if you have IBS, Crohn's, or other digestive conditions.
Bottomline
Fibremaxxing is both a blessing and a curse, unless you do it with awareness. When done with thought, it can potentially enhance gut health, fullness, and metabolic health. But pushed to the limits, it can also backfire with digestive discomfort or even damage to your nutritional equilibrium.
[Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Always seek a healthcare professional before making drastic changes to your diet.]