Dietary fiber intake provides many health benefits.
However, average
fiber intakes for US children and adults are less than half of the
recommended levels. Individuals with high intakes of dietary fiber
appear to be at significantly lower risk for developing coronary heart
disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and certain
gastrointestinal diseases.
Increasing fiber intake lowers blood pressure
and serum cholesterol levels. Increased intake of soluble fiber
improves glycemia and insulin sensitivity in non-diabetic and diabetic
individuals.
Fiber supplementation in obese individuals significantly
enhances weight loss. Increased fiber intake benefits a number of
gastrointestinal disorders including the following: gastroesophageal
reflux disease, duodenal ulcer, diverticulitis, constipation, and
hemorrhoids.
Prebiotic fibers appear to enhance immune function. Dietary
fiber intake provides similar benefits for children as for adults.
The
recommended dietary fiber intakes for children and adults are 14 g/1000
kcal. More effective communication and consumer education is required to
enhance fiber consumption from foods or supplements.
Author information
Anderson JW1, Baird P, Davis RH Jr, Ferreri S, Knudtson M, Koraym A, Waters V, Williams CL.
