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Dietary fiber intake in the US population
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|November 1, 1987
Summary
US adults consume less dietary fiber than previously thought. This study analyzed data from the Second National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES II) to estimate fiber intake.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Dietary fiber intake is crucial for maintaining health.
- Previous estimates of fiber consumption in the US may be inaccurate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate total dietary fiber intake among US adults.
- To compare fiber intake based on different calculation methodologies.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 24-hour recall data from the Second National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES II).
- Calculated food fiber values for 2500 foods using NCI literature values and the Southgate methodology.
Main Results:
- Mean dietary fiber intake was 11.1 g/day (NCI values) and 13.3 g/day (Southgate values).
- Women consumed more dietary fiber per 1000 kcal than men across all age groups.
- Fiber intake varied by geographic region, age, race, and sex.
Conclusions:
- Dietary fiber intake in the US is significantly lower than previously reported.
- The findings highlight a potential public health concern regarding inadequate fiber consumption.