Fiber's quiet rise outlasts the protein trend.

Dietitian Amy Shapiro describes 'fiber layering'—adding varied fiber sources to meals—as a return to established nutrition guidance, and the article reports that more than 90% of Americans do not meet recommended fiber intake.

Protein has dominated wellness conversations, but attention is shifting toward dietary fiber and how people add it to meals. The article notes celebrity mentions, such as a viral tip from Kristen Bell, have helped popularize trends like "fiber layering." Dietitian Amy Shapiro explains that fiber layering means combining different fiber-rich foods or supplements in a meal and describes the approach as grounded in long-standing nutrition science rather than a novel biohack. She highlights fiber's roles beyond digestion and notes common confusion about fiber types. Key points: - "Fiber layering" refers to intentionally adding different fiber-rich ingredients and sometimes supplements into one meal or dish. - Amy Shapiro, M.S., R.D., says framing fiber layering as a social-media "biohack" misrepresents a practice dietitians have long recommended. - The article reports that over 90% of Americans do not meet recommended fiber guidelines while many people already meet protein goals. - Fiber is described as supporting digestion, blood sugar balance, heart health, satiety, regularity, and aspects of energy and inflammation. - Soluble fiber dissolves in water and can form a gel that slows digestion and may help lower cholesterol; insoluble fiber adds bulk and supports gut motility. - The piece cites psyllium as an example of a soluble, viscous fiber and reports that Shapiro advises introducing fiber increases slowly and with adequate fluids because a rapid rise can cause digestive upset. Summary: Rising interest in fiber is presented as a shift back to foundational dietary priorities and is tied to a range of described health effects. Undetermined at this time.