Fibermaxxing: The Gut Health Trend You Need to Know About

If you've been anywhere near social media recently, you've probably come across the term “fibermaxxing.” Touted as the latest digestive health trend, fibermaxxing involves dramatically increasing your fibre intake to support gut health, regularity, and even weight loss. But is this trend rooted in science — or could it do more harm than good?

As a BANT Registered Nutritional Therapist with a clinical specialism in digestive health, I want to explore this trend, separate fact from fiction, and help you understand how to improve your gut health safely and sustainably.

What Is Fibermaxxing?

Fibermaxxing is a viral nutrition trend focused on increasing your daily fibre intake well beyond the recommended 30g per day. Advocates of the trend claim benefits such as:

• Better digestion

• Reduced bloating

• Improved blood sugar balance

• Enhanced satiety (helping with weight loss)

• A healthier microbiome

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There’s no doubt that most of us aren’t getting enough fibre — in the UK, average intake sits around 18g per day. So in that sense, this trend has a point.

But when people jump from low-fibre diets to 40g+ overnight, problems can arise — especially if they’re not balancing different types of fibre or drinking enough water.

Why Fibre Matters for Digestive Health

Fibre is essential for a healthy digestive system. It adds bulk to stool, helps regulate bowel movements, and feeds beneficial gut bacteria — all vital for long-term gut health.

There are two main types of fibre:

• Soluble fibre, found in oats, apples, beans, and flaxseed, helps soften stools and feeds the microbiome.

• Insoluble fibre, found in wholegrains, seeds, and vegetables, supports regularity by increasing stool bulk.

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A balanced diet should contain both types in the right proportions.

As a digestive health specialist, I often work with clients who experience symptoms like:

• Bloating

• Constipation

• IBS

• Reflux

In these cases, simply "maxxing out" fibre can actually worsen symptoms without proper guidance.

The Professional Perspective: Personalised Nutrition Is Key

This is where working with a BANT Registered Nutritional Therapist makes all the difference. Rather than blindly following trends, I assess your individual digestive health, microbiome balance, and lifestyle to create a plan that works for you.

For example:

• Someone with IBS may benefit from a gradual fibre increase and support for the gut lining.

• A client recovering from antibiotics might need prebiotic fibres to encourage good bacteria.

• Those with reflux might need to focus on low-FODMAP or mucilaginous fibres like chia and slippery elm.

This level of personalisation is what helps my clients see lasting improvements — not just a temporary trend.

Safe Ways to Increase Fibre

If you're curious about trying fibermaxxing for yourself, here’s how to do it safely:

1. Go slow. Increase your fibre intake gradually over several weeks.

2. Hydrate. Fibre draws water into the digestive tract — without enough fluid, constipation can worsen.

3. Diversify your sources. Aim for a wide range of plant foods: legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and wholegrains.

4. Listen to your body. If symptoms worsen, reduce your intake and seek guidance.

5. Work with a professional. Get tailored advice from a qualified Nutritional Therapist.

Final Thoughts

Fibre is a cornerstone of digestive wellness, but trends like fibermaxxing oversimplify what’s often a complex and sensitive system.

Credit: Anna Pelzer

If you’re struggling with bloating, constipation, or any gut issues, I can help. As a BANT Registered Nutritional Therapist specialising in digestive health, I offer evidence-based, personalised plans to get your gut back in balance — no fads needed.