JAMA. 1989 Jul 28;262(4):542-6.
During the last 18 years, considerable research has been conducted on the role of dietary fiber in health and disease. Interest was stimulated by epidemiologic studies that associated a low intake of dietary fiber with the incidence of colon cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases and disorders. Dietary fiber is not a single substance. There are significant differences in the physiological effects of the various components of dietary fiber. A Recommended Dietary Allowance for dietary fiber has not been established. However, an adequate amount of dietary fiber can be obtained by choosing several servings daily from a variety of fiber-rich foods such as whole-grain breads and cereals, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts.
