Why people on protein-heavy diets need to eat more fiber

Nutritionists and gastroenterologists warn that the more we load up on protein, another vital nutrient is being left behind.

Americans can’t seem to get enough protein.

Typically the go-to fuel of bodybuilders and athletes, protein has become the wellness world’s ultimate nutrient for weight loss, energy and muscle maintenance.

Nutritionists and gastroenterologists warn that the more we load up on protein, another vital nutrient is being left behind: fiber.

“A lot of times when people are on a high-protein diet they’re eliminating other sources of food,” said Christina Fasulo, a nutritionist in the department of digestive diseases at UCLA Health. “Most people need to have a set amount of fiber in their diet, and a lot of that is getting displaced by a high-protein diet.”

Dietary guidelines recommend 25 grams of fiber per day for women and 38 grams for men. Yet the average American consumes just 15 grams daily.