Why can fiber supplements not replace fruits and vegetables?

There are many advertisements on the internet for fiber-supplemented candy products, which can make many people mistakenly think that just eating these candies is enough to get the necessary amount of fiber, without needing to supplement with vegetables and fruits.

This is a misconception and can be harmful to your health if maintained for a long time.

Vegetables contain fiber and vitamins essential for health, vegetable candy is irreplaceable.

PHOTO: LIEN CHAU

Refined fiber does not provide enough vitamins

Although some candies may contain artificial fiber or plant extracts, they cannot completely replace fruits and vegetables in the diet because they lack other important nutrients.

Vegetables and fruits not only contain fiber but also provide important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for the body.

Fiber in candy may be less effective. Some candy contains artificial fiber which can cause gas and indigestion if consumed in excess.

Natural fiber in fruits and vegetables comes with water and compounds that are beneficial for digestive health, helping the body absorb nutrients better than synthetic fiber.

According to a 2018 study conducted on mice by scientists at Georgia State University and the University of Toledo (USA), adding highly refined fiber such as inulin to processed foods can have negative health effects, such as promoting the risk of liver cancer. This study raises concerns about the safety of adding refined fiber to processed foods when used long-term.

According to the document "Recommended nutritional needs for Vietnamese people" and recommendations of the World Health Organization, the minimum amount of fiber needed by the body each day is 20 - 22 grams of fiber/day.

The Institute of Nutrition recommends that each person should eat at least 400 grams of vegetables and fruits per day to ensure the necessary amount of fiber and nutrients. Depending on each family's conditions, the allocation can be as follows: green vegetables need at least 300 grams/day, fresh fruits need about 100 grams/day.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/vi-sao-keo-bo-sung-chat-xo-khong-the-thay-the-rau-cu-qua-185250402092753422.htm