Importance of Fiber in Diet

Fiber, described as a dietary superhero by NPR science correspondent Maria Gudoy, is crucial for various health benefits such as lowering cholesterol, regulating blood sugar levels, and supporting gut health by feeding essential microbes. However, a significant portion of the population, about 95% of Americans, do not consume enough fiber in their diets, leading to potential health issues. Consuming a diversity of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes is essential to meet daily fiber intake recommendations.