Fiber Reality Check: Are You Getting Enough?
Have you eaten enough fiber today? A new survey finds that nearly 70 percent of women

polled say they eat enough fiber

every day, but research shows only about one of 10 is actually eating enough fiber1.

The survey, conducted on behalf of Kellogg's All-Bran Yogurt Bites cereal, also found that more than one-third of respondents believed they need to eat fewer than 20 grams of fiber each day. The reality is that women, in particular, require about 25 grams of fiber daily to help prevent such ailments as coronary artery disease, colon cancer, obesity, diabetes and various gastrointestinal disorders.

So why are women lagging on fiber intake? A number of reasons exist, says registered dietitian Joanne Larsen, but misconception probably ranks as No. 1.

"Women don't realize how much fiber is in various foods and how important fiber is to all aspects of their health - not just digestive health," Larsen explains. "When they learn that their bagel, or morning white or wheat toast, has just a few grams of fiber and that getting a full 25 grams can help improve their health, women become very aware of how much more fiber they need in their diet."

Since eating 25 grams of fiber can seem daunting, women often turn to fiber supplements. While these pills and powders contain up to three grams of fiber per serving, they lack in taste and might not offer other vitamins and minerals. According to focus group research, many physicians and registered dietitians agree it's often best to get fiber through real food sources. A cereal like All-Bran Yogurt Bites offers 10 grams of fiber per serving, nearly 40 percent of the fiber a woman needs each day. With 100 percent of the daily value for vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid, the cereal delivers a great start to the day.

"When you consider the diseases that eating fiber can help prevent, a high-fiber diet should be a priority," adds Larsen. "Still, women juggle so much every day with home, work and family. Getting enough fiber shouldn't weigh heavy on their minds. That's why one serving of this great-tasting cereal is a simple way to get nearly half the recommended daily intake."

All-Bran Yogurt Bites not only promotes better health, but it is tasty. The crunchy flakes and yogurt-coated clusters combine for a nourishing and delicious breakfast that helps women stay healthy, energized and strong.

1 Moshfegh, A. et al 2005 What We Eat in America, NHANES 2001-2002: Usual Nutrient Intake from Food Compared to Dietary Reference Intakes. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. All materials courtesy of Kellogg's All-Bran Yogurt Bites.