Fiber and Wellness

I have a question that I was hoping to have some advice on. Recent news and media have advocated for a higher consumption of fiber. In response, there seems to be an overwhelming array of new products supplemented with additional fiber. I've noticed that 25-35 grams per days is deemed ideal, but with these new products, it is easy to go over that. A cup of All Bran cereal delivers 20 grams in itself! Coupled with a few slices of whole wheat bread at lunch, fruit for snacks, and some oatmeal in the evening, I've estimated a 60+ gram intake on some days. Is it dangerous to consume too much fiber? Should we be worried about vitamin absorption? Thanks for your help!

[Renee Radenberg]

25-30 grams per day is the recommended amount of fiber, however, most people eat less then per day. Your body will not be harmed with an increased fiber intake. Most fiber passes through our body, which is why it is good for us. It makes the colon work and moves our waste faster through so there is a decreased chance of disease development in the large intestines. It does not affect the absorption of vitamins; in fact higher fiber foods have a greater number of vitamins due to more intact wheat germ. Our main source of vitamins and minerals comes from fruits and vegetables which are also another main source of fiber for us.