Side Effects of Eating too much Fibre

Oct 09, 2023, 07:58 IST

WION Desk

The current recommendation is that adults should eat 30g of fibre a day. Excessive fibre consumption can have adverse effects on the digestive system, leading to various issues.

1. Digestive Discomfort

 Consuming too much fibre in a short period can cause bloating and abdominal pain, disrupting the entire digestive system and resulting in considerable discomfort.

2. Impaired Nutrient Absorption

 An excess of fibre hampers the proper absorption of essential nutrients and minerals like calcium, zinc, and iron, impacting their availability to the body.

3. Diarrhoea

An overabundance of fibre may lead to diarrhoea or loose stools. High-fibre foods such as bananas, apples, oats, spinach, and tomatoes can trigger stomach upsets in some individuals. 

4. Intestinal Disruptions

Excessive fibre intake has the potential to disrupt the intestines and contribute to intestinal blockages, especially when coupled with inadequate water intake, hindering the body's ability to digest fibre effectively. 

5. Constipation

 Contrary to expectations, an excess of fibre, particularly soluble fibre, which is beneficial for maintaining blood sugar levels, can interfere with the digestive system and result in constipation. Striking a balance is crucial to avoid such unintended consequences.

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