Check out these new TikTok food trends that make the most of fiber
“Fibermaxxing” is a dietary trend focused on increasing fiber intake. Participants will share recipe videos to help them get as much fiber as possible.
‘Protein Max’ and ‘Fiber Max’ are trending concepts that are gaining traction as they consume these nutrients for health benefits. But is it necessary? Or is it healthy?
Yes, brands are already jumping on the protein bandwagon, from protein-packed chips to drinks and more. Fiber-filled snacks are all the rage right now, leading to some questionable trends on the internet, like people putting chia seeds in sodas and desserts.
“Guys, enough is enough…” one TikTok commenter wrote on a video of people adding chia seeds to a bowl of ice cream, which has been viewed 3.7 million times. Others were totally on board with the idea, writing: “You’re changing my life.”
A video about adding chia seeds to everyday soda has garnered 7.7 million views, but also received mixed reviews. “Honestly, I’m curious,” one poster wrote, while another commented: “There’s no way you could ruin a soda with chia seeds. You’re stronger than me.”
However, “adding chia seeds won’t magically turn a luxury item into a health food, but it does add nutrients like fiber, which may help increase satiety,” Tara Schmidt, registered dietitian and nutrition coach at the Mayo Clinic, told USA TODAY. “If adding chia seeds allows you to continue getting more fiber, it’s generally a good change. Think of chia seeds as a nutritional upgrade rather than a reset button.”
Protein in water? Yes, it’s not just shakes anymore.
No more milky smoothies or drinks mixed with whey powder for a protein boost. The latest forms are “Clear Protein” powder supplements and protein waters.
Schmidt said protein water is helpful for athletes and people who need high protein, are recovering from illness or are in situations where protein foods are not available, but is not necessary for most people.
“Most Americans meet their protein needs and could benefit from choosing more nutritious foods to get their protein,” she said, explaining that “protein water primarily provides that one nutrient.”
Why would anyone “maximize” their diet anyway?
Experts say high fiber intake is associated with a lower risk of certain diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, but most Americans don’t get enough fiber.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, adults should consume about 22 to 34 grams of fiber per day, depending on their age and gender. However, the majority of people who eat Westernized diets don’t meet the recommended daily amount of fiber, Ashley Koff, a registered dietitian with the Better Nutrition Program, previously told USA TODAY.
Unlike fiber, Americans typically consume enough (or more than enough) protein, and U.S. consumption is at an all-time high.
However, this did not stop the obsession with “maximizing”. why?
“We are in an era of optimizing performance, appearance and longevity,” Schmidt explained. “As we focus on social media, wearable technology, and biohacking, we’re asking ourselves, ‘How can we get more of these trending nutrients?'”
But that doesn’t mean you should focus on just a few ingredients.
“While it’s good to be mindful of your nutrition, eat mindfully and try healthy foods, more isn’t always better,” she added. “Increasing fiber and protein is often fine, but not if you ignore your overall eating pattern.”
For example, in addition to chia and other seeds, dietary fiber is also found in oats, beans, lentils, nuts, and fruits such as apples, and experts recommend diversifying your diet to get a variety of fiber.
“Adding more nutritious foods is generally a good trend. The problem begins when we expect a single ingredient, supplement, or fortified product to make up for an overall dietary pattern that doesn’t meet our needs,” added Schmidt. “Nutrition is not about finding the perfect diet, but about building consistent healthy patterns over time.”
Contributor: Alexandra Frost, USA TODAY
