We have a public health issue that pre-dates the pandemic. That's right! In the early 2000s fiber was classified as a "nutrient of concern." Yikes! And what's your guess? Do you think we've improved or worsened our fiber consumption since then? The sad part is this nutrient deficiency is at the root of almost every disease. This week, Jenn's tackling America's fiber problem addressing not only what created the situation, the implications of too little fiber and the benefits of sufficient fiber but the HOW of adding more into our daily lives. The best part is, it's actually easier than we think!Outline:Welcome back & welcome back, StephanieIntro today’s topicWhat is America's fiber problem?A nutrient of concern, a public health issueRecommended amountsHow did we get here?Food pyramidProcessed foodPerception of the taste of fiber-rich foodsImplications of insufficient fiberAutoimmuneIncreased burden on the liver & other detoxification pathwaysDisease states connected to GI challenges and too little fiberBenefits of sufficient fiberHow much fiber do we want each day & where do we get it?Grains vs fruits/veggiesSoluble fiberInsoluble fiberNew definition: Total Fiber = Dietary Fiber + Functional Fiber How much fiber is in various foodsWhat we get when we eat sufficient amounts of fiberProbiotics, prebioticsFunctional Fiber, peri-bioticSupplementing and foods fortified with fiberHow to add more fiber, it's easier than you thinkA note on smoothiesGradually addDrink your waterFinal thoughts Links:Become a MemberConnect with us! FB Page & Private FB Group & Jenn's InstagramTake the free Weight Loss Profile, Jenn will send you a Menu PlanQuotes:"95% of American adults and children do not consume the recommended amounts of fiber." – Jenn Trepeck"A nutrient of concern."  – Jenn Trepeck"Our overall health...is very much a function of nutrition and fiber is a major piece of that."  – Jenn Trepeck"A lot of the disease and dis-ease we see can be connected to these nutritional choices."  – Jenn Trepeck"If we eat a variety of foods that come from the earth we'll most likely check the boxes. If we're eating a variety of foods that come from a box, a bag or a window, we're not."  – Jenn Trepeck"Supplementation can fill in the gaps where our nutrition falls short; we cannot supplement our way out of poor nutrition."  – Jenn Trepeck