How Much Fibre?

Current health guidelines suggest that healthy adults should consume at least 26 grams of fibre - ideally 26 to 35 grams daily.

At present Canadian fibre intake only averages 4.5 to 11 grams a day.

Health Canada suggests increasing this amount by: eating more grains and unpeeled (but well-washed) fruit and vegetables.

Another plus of a fibre-rich diet is that it provides plenty of vitamins and minerals, but it may be wise to consult a physician before greatly increasing dietary fibre intake and to ensure good nutritional status before making drastic alterations.

Initially, eating large quantities of fibre may cause bloating, but this should subside in a few weeks. It is best to increase amounts gradually.

Eating 26 grams of fibre daily may seem like a lot but it  can be done by: having two fruits at breakfast-time (say a banana and raisins) with whole grain cereal, fruit as between-meal snacks, three to five servings of vegetables daily, and several bread and grain servings.