Fibremaxxing trend highlights health benefits of fibre

Social posts tagged #fibremaxxing have been viewed more than 150 million times, and the NHS recommends adults eat 30g of fibre a day while average UK intake is about 16.4g, with 96% of adults below the recommendation.

Fibre has become a notable social media topic under the hashtags #fibremaxxing and #fibermaxxing, drawing wide attention to foods high in fibre. Videos showing chia seeds on porridge and posts praising beans and pulses have been widely shared. Health agencies and experts have long recommended higher fibre intake, but most people in the UK still fall short. Nutritionists say the trend may reflect growing public interest in gut health and broader wellbeing. Key facts: - Posts with the hashtags #fibremaxxing and #fibermaxxing have been viewed more than 150 million times on TikTok. - The NHS recommends adults eat 30g of fibre a day; average daily fibre consumption in the UK is around 16.4g and 96% of adults do not meet the recommendation, with women eating less than men. - Commonly featured fibre-rich foods in the trend include chia seeds, red kidney beans, chickpeas, brown rice and jacket potatoes. - Dietitians quoted in coverage say the trend reflects renewed interest in gut health and greater awareness of fibre's role in diet. - Kevin Whelan, professor of Dietetics at King's College London, is reported as saying people with higher fibre intake live longer, have less cardiovascular disease, fewer cancers and lower risk of diabetes, and that some studies suggest benefits for mental health. Summary: The trend has increased visibility of dietary fibre and the kinds of foods that supply it, while highlighting a gap between current UK consumption and recommended levels. Undetermined at this time.