Adriana Soto-Vaca, PhD

Most of us know the basics on fiber: It helps us “stay regular,” and if things aren’t as “regular” as usual, we try to eat more foods like bran cereals and prunes.

But there is far more to know about fiber, especially in relation to health and wellness. What exactly is fiber? Why is it so good for our digestive systems? Can it fend off disease? How much should we consume? How does the recommended intake compare with how much the typical American eats?