The term “gut health” is popping up everywhere these days, especially in wellness discussions. It’s more than just a trendy phrase; it’s become essential for how we feel day to day. Good digestive health affects our energy, mood, and overall comfort.
Meanwhile, fiber has earned a spotlight of its own. No longer just a topic for nutritionists, many people are actively trying to incorporate more fiber into their meals. However, a staggering 90% of women and 97% of men in the U.S. fail to meet their daily fiber needs. Many are confused about how much is enough, why it matters beyond just digestion, and how to add it into their everyday diet.
A recent survey from Sunsweet Growers sheds light on these issues. It shows that while Americans recognize the importance of gut health, they’re often unsure about how to boost their fiber intake.
So, what exactly is fiber? It’s a type of carbohydrate found in plants that your body can’t fully digest. This is a good thing. Instead of breaking it down, fiber helps things move along smoothly through your system. It can keep you feeling full, stabilize blood sugar, and even lower cholesterol.
There are two main types of fiber. Soluble fiber, found in foods like oats and apples, slows digestion and can help lower cholesterol. On the other hand, insoluble fiber, found in whole grains and leafy greens, helps food pass through your digestive tract. Many foods, like prunes, offer a mix of both.
The Nutrition and Digestive Health Survey, conducted by YouGov on behalf of Sunsweet from December 18-19, 2025, reveals that gut health is crucial for many Americans. The findings include:
- 95% of U.S. adults rate good digestion as important, similar to hydration (97%) and energy levels (91%).
- 84% believe that gut health heavily influences their daily well-being.
- Parents value good digestion even more, with 71% claiming it’s essential compared to 61% of non-parents.
Malina Malkani, a pediatric dietitian and mom, shares her insights: “Digestive discomfort can disrupt family life. Getting enough fiber isn’t just about gut health; it helps the whole family feel better.”
Despite this awareness, many are still struggling with fiber intake:
- 44% of U.S. adults wish it were easier to add fiber into their diets.
- A significant portion either doesn’t know the recommended amount or underestimates it. For instance, 37% didn’t know how much fiber to consume each day.
As we redefine wellness by how we feel, fiber is becoming central. If you want to include more fiber in your diet, start with small changes. For instance, choose whole grains over refined ones, add fruits and vegetables to meals, and swap snacks for high-fiber options like prunes.
Malkani suggests, “Simple habits can greatly improve fiber intake. For example, adding prunes can boost your fiber by three grams per serving. Even easy swaps in your meals can make a big difference.”
By making intentional choices and minor adjustments, you can seamlessly increase your fiber intake, turning it into a positive habit that supports your long-term health.
This story was produced by Sunsweet Growers and reviewed by Stacker.
