Experts warn gradual approach to the rising 'fibermaxxing' diet trend
Nutrition specialists caution that rapidly boosting fiber intake can cause digestive discomfort and stress the need for adequate water.
Norwegian consumers are increasingly adopting the "fibermaxxing" trend, aiming to exceed official fiber guidelines of 25-35 g per day. Experts like Cathrine Borchsenius and Anette Skarpaas Ramm note that while higher fiber can improve digestion, satiety and overall nutrient intake, abruptly shifting from a low- to high-fiber diet may cause bloating, excess gas and abdominal discomfort, especially from fermentable foods such as legumes and cruciferous vegetables.
They recommend a stepwise increase in fiber, paired with ample water to prevent constipation, and emphasize diversity of plant foods to support a healthy gut microbiome. Professor Vibeke Telle-Hansen adds that different fiber types have distinct effects on blood sugar, cholesterol and gut health. The consensus is to prioritize a balanced, plant-rich diet over trying to maximize fiber alone, and to obtain fiber from whole foods rather than supplements.
