Health - Wellness
Does Eating Too Much Fiber Cause Constipation?
By CATHERINE CARUSO
Fiber is an essential nutrient that helps move food through your digestive system, and since fiber is largely indigestible, it can help aid digestion by making stools easier to pass. Eating too much fiber, however, can have the opposite effect.
Eating excessive quantities of fiber can cause unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms like gas, bloating, constipation, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Research suggests that consuming more than 70 grams of fiber per day can increase the risk of side effects.
While the daily recommended intake of fiber ranges from 25 to 38 grams, you may need to consume more or less depending on your genetics and medical history. You can relieve digestive symptoms by reducing your daily fiber consumption and drinking plenty of water, and regular exercise can be helpful as well.