A new wellness trend is taking over TikTok, and it is all about fiber. Called ‘fibermaxxing’, the movement encourages people to dramatically increase their fiber intake. It promotes consuming large quantities of high-fiber foods or even supplements. While some TikTok users swear by its benefits, others are raising eyebrows at the potential side effects and risks.
What is fibermaxxing?
Fibermaxxing is the practice of consuming a lot more dietary fibre than is typically advised each day, sometimes going above 30 to 50 grams daily. Many supporters claim that it helps with digestion, weight loss, blood sugar regulation, and long-lasting feelings of fullness.
TikTok wellness creators and influencers have been posting videos about their high-fiber diets; picture big bowls of lentils, fiber-fortified cereals, chia seed puddings, and even a few psyllium husk drinks each day. Some users report feeling lighter, less bloated, and more energised. According to some, it has even altered their intestinal health.
“So often, food-related social media trends focus on excluding foods or food groups,” Jennifer House, dietician and founder of First Step Nutrition in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, told USA TODAY. “And most of us get enough protein, but we don’t get enough fiber.”
Dieticians recommend starting “low and slow” when increasing fiber intake. Making a sudden switch to a high-fiber diet—or “maxxing” too quickly, can lead to gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea, or constipation, especially if you are not drinking enough water, says Dietician Mascha Davis to USA TODAY.
‘Even trends need a balance’
Netizens are also pointing out the pros and cons of the trend. A user said, “Some supplements are OK but be careful. I took care of a big 19 year old Indian fella who tried to quickly transform his fat into muscle by pumping iron at the gym. For six months he used Creatine and male hormones, and 2 grams of Ibuprofen a day. Had kidney failure and needed dialysis.”
“Fiber makes me feel better All bran cereal with yogurt is a breakfast of champions,” another noted. “Fiber is critical for a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a direct role in mood, inflammation, colon cancer risk and even memory!,” stated a netizen. “Gen Z’s taking gut health viral, but even trends need balance,” noted another user. “fibermaxxing? sounds like a recipe for constipation to me. how about we talk about the real health risks of eating too much fiber?,” stated a user.