Fiber is one of the most powerful and most overlooked tools for metabolic, digestive, and cardiovascular health. But more is not always better at least not all at once. Here’s how to increase fiber intake intelligently. 1. Easy Does It If you dramatically increase fiber overnight, you may experience: Gas Bloating Cramping Constipation Your gut bacteria need time to adapt. A smart approach: Increase fiber by about 5 grams per day Maintain that level for one week Then increase again by another 5 grams Continue gradually until you reach your target Mild transition symptoms can still occur — this is normal as the microbiome adjusts. 2. Drink Plenty of Water Fiber works by absorbing water. Without adequate hydration, fiber can worsen constipation instead of improving it. General guideline: Aim for 6–8 glasses of water daily Drink a full glass whenever taking a fiber supplement Hydration optimizes fiber’s ability to: Support elimination…