Malnutrition and deficiency diseases have been persistent problems throughout history. A balanced diet significantly influences one′s health, and fiber intake may be more important than previously thought. High-fiber foods (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) have invariably been highly beneficial to health and effectively reduce disease risk. 

Despite the fact that the mechanism by which dietary fiber works in the consumer′s body remains unclear, nutritionists and health professionals unanimously recognize the therapeutic benefits.

Dietary fibers provide many benefits to the body; they have no energy value but are necessary for the normal functioning of the digestive tract and the whole human body. They are neither digested nor absorbed but help the intestinal tract function optimally and contribute to the body′s detoxification. They primarily prevent constipation and promote intestinal motility regulation. Fiber consumption also helps to lose weight, as it gives a feeling of long-term satiety and plays a vital role in preventing metabolic diseases.

Clinical data suggest a beneficial effect of a fiber-enriched diet on neurodegenerative diseases. However, more clinical data and evaluations are needed to confirm and highlight the mechanism of action of fiber on the central nervous system. 

Studies even report a positive effect of fiber on the behavior of children like those with autism. But there need to be more clinical trials in this direction to have a complete and definite picture of the mode of action of dietary fiber. 

Notably, we must remember that when we increase the fiber level, we must also increase the fluid level, as the fiber absorbs water from the intestine. Thus, consuming various fruits, vegetables and grains make up the daily amount of fiber needed.

Further, excess fiber consumption may cause episodes of diarrhea and dehydration and increase the probability of bloating, flatulence, or even bowel obstruction. It may also interfere with the absorption of essential minerals from foods, such as iron, zinc, or calcium. Despite this, more research is needed on the composition and required amount of fiber concerning the metabolism of saprotrophic microorganisms from the enteral level and the benefits of the various pathologies with which they may be associated.

Nutrients. 2022 Jun 26;14(13):2641. doi: 10.3390/nu14132641. PMID: 35807822; PMCID: PMC9268622.