Fiber

Alternative names:

bulk; diet and fiber; roughage

Side effects:

Eating a large amount of fiber in a short period of time can cause intestinal gas (flatulence), bloating, and abdominal cramps. This subsides once the natural bacteria in the digestive system get used to the increase in fiber in the diet. The problem with gas or diarrhea can be reduced considerably by adding fiber gradually to the diet.

Too much fiber may interfere with the absorption of trace minerals including iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium. This effect is minimal because high-fiber foods are usually rich in minerals.