Ask the experts: Fibre

Recommended fibre intakes for men and women.

"In your nutrition information you say women need 25g of fibre a day and men need 30g. Why do men need more?"

B Ryan, Brisbane, QLD

Generally men need more of most nutrients, including certain vitamins, protein and minerals than females. The notable exception to this is iron. In the case of iron, men need less than women as they don’t lose iron through menstruation.

The difference in fibre recommendations is simply due to size – men are larger than women. A diet high in fibre helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and bowel cancer.

And what does 30g of fibre look like? A 30g bowl of bran cereal (eg Sultana Bran) + 2 slices wholemeal bread + 2 pieces of fruit + 1 serve of vegies (1/2 cup) + 1 cob of corn.