I have been trying to increase my fiber intake for quite a while now....I have noticed that when I do get the recommended amount of fiber I have increased gas but not increase bowel movements.Is this normal? I have a hard time being consisent with fiber(no pun intended) because often the foods with a good amount of fiber are expensive and I don't always have them stocked in my kitchen. Now I have fiberone bars/yogurt/cereal, benefiber and a good double fiber bread that I enjoy. If I keep up with the fiber, keeping it in the recommended amounts will my bowel movements eventually even itself out? Usually I have at least 2bm's a day, and with this fiber increase I often have 1(but a small one). ...hate to be so gross and descriptive but I wanted to make sure this is normal. Thx

Fiber is less expensive in foods like seasonal fruits and vegetables.  For instance, right now foods like corn on the cob, peaches and watermelon are good sources and contain lots of vitamins, minerals, and water.  Water is very, very important because fiber acts on its ability to bind water have move through the digestive tract. 

If there's not enough water then things can "get stuck" and bm's will be smaller.  So I'd be sure you drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water each day.  That will also help reduce the gas.

There's lots of great information at the National Fiber Council's website - www.nationalfibercouncil.org.

I hope this helps.  Please let me know if you need anything else.

Pat Baird, MA, RD, registered dietitian

 Thanks Pat,

I am going to look into that site.....I drink so much water daily, over 64oz's daily.  Thanks for the cheaper fiber-rich food ideas!

 You're welcome!  Glad to hear you're such a good water-drinker.  I think you'll fine an easier time with bm's when you increase your fruits and vegetables, especially, though you can still use some of the fiber supplements if you like.

Cheers!

Pat

Thanks again Pat! All is well with me and my "stuck" situation..... Hope you are doing well. Jennifer

 That's great, Jennifer!  Hopefully you're back on track now, and it will be smooth going (no pun intended) from here.  Check back whenever you need something.

Pat