The recent revelation that US consumers are failing to consume enough dietary fibre has led to a number of fibre supplements being launched. Earlier this month, Novartis launched Benefiber supplements, and now another American firm, CNS, has launched FiberChoice, a chewable fibre supplement.
The recommended daily intake of fibre is 25 grams, the equivalent of five cups of broccoli, 10 apples or 12 slices of whole wheat bread. According to the American Dietetic Association, most US adults consume only 14-15 grams of dietary fibre a day, far less than the recommended allowance.
CNS said that there was substantial evidence to show that fibre helped lower the risk of heart disease, reduce cholesterol levels and combat other problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
The company claimed that FiberChoice tablets had an advantage over most other rival products because they could be taken anywhere at any time, without the need for water or mixing with other ingredients. It added that other easy-to-swallow tablets contained just half a gram of fibre, compared to four grams for FiberChoice.
"Chewable FiberChoice tablets are made of natural ingredients, and each orange-flavoured dose (two tablets) contains four grams of fructan, a natural source of fibre found in more than 36,000 common fruits, vegetables and grains. Numerous studies confirm its safety and effectiveness. FiberChoice tablets can be used by anyone, including pregnant women and children," the company claimed.
CNS has also launched a new website, Fibrechoice.com, designed to help consumers learn more about fibre, what it can do and how to increase their daily intake. It also offers fibre-friendly recipes and links to other fibre-related sources.