Fiber Fight: Foods Outshine Supplements for Gut Health
Fiber is essential, but most Americans fall short of the daily target (25 g for women, 38 g for men). Fiber from whole plant foods—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, and seeds—fuels gut microbes and helps produce short-chain fatty acids that support digestion and overall health. While fiber supplements can help fill gaps, they typically provide a single type of fiber and can’t replicate the diversity of whole foods; psyllium husk is a common recommendation for constipation or cholesterol, but supplements should be a backup rather than a replacement for a varied, fiber-rich diet. Pregnant individuals should consult their clinician before taking supplements.
