Dietary fiber: An essential part of a healthy diet

So what are your best sources? This list shows the amount of dietary fiber in several types of foods.

*Fiber content can vary between brands.
Source: USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, 2004

Whole foods rather than fiber supplements are generally better. Fiber supplements — such as Metamucil, Citrucel and FiberCon — don't provide the vitamins, minerals and other beneficial nutrients that high-fiber foods do. However, some people may still need a fiber supplement if dietary changes aren't sufficient, or if they have certain medical conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Check with your doctor if you feel you need to take fiber supplements.