Dietary fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet. The recommended daily allowance for older children and adults is 20 to 35 grams of fiber per day, according to the MedlinePlus online medical encyclopedia. Fiber can be found in food sources such as whole-grain cereals, breads, legumes, fruits, vegetables and pastas, as well as in supplement form. Consult your doctor before beginning a high-fiber diet, and discuss potential side effects.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Although patients with irritable bowel syndrome can experience some relief by consuming forms of insoluble fiber, they must be wary about the amount of soluble fiber in their diets, the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology practice warns on its website. Insoluble fiber sources include bran, vegetables and whole grain. This type of fiber helps stool pass through the digestive system. Soluble fiber, meanwhile, may cause gas and bloating in patients. Those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome typically limit their intake of soluble fiber sources, such as nuts, legumes, seeds and supplements.
Bowel Changes
If you eat too much fiber at once, you may develop symptoms such as cramping, gas and bloating. The symptoms do not last for long, and typically go away once your body grows accustomed to the increased intake of fiber. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor to rule out any other medical conditions.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Another concern with a high-fiber diet is the potential for nutritional deficiencies. According to MedlinePlus, too much fiber may affect your body's ability to absorb essential nutrients such as magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc. To combat this issue, you may want to consider getting your fiber intake from food sources rich in vitamins and minerals rather than supplements.
Considerations
Keep in mind that eating moderate amounts of dietary fiber can actually be beneficial to your health. Benefits include weight control, constipation treatment and heart disease prevention. You should never avoid fiber-rich foods purposely unless otherwise advised by your doctor. As long as you eat a well-balanced diet, you do not need to consume a fiber supplement to meet the recommended daily allowance.
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