Assessment of Dietary Fiber Intake in Adults: Consideration of Gender and Age Disparities

Background: Many studies have focused on the health effects of dietary fibre. Despite the advice of numerous experts to increase fibre consumption, many population groups have failed to meet the recommended daily average intake, which may lead to the development of various chronic diseases. Objectives: This study aimed to gain insight into the dietary fibre intake of adults in the Indian population. Methods and Materials: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 800 adults. A structured questionnaire containing 12 questions was used to collect data from the study participants. Data were analysed using statistical methods, and the outcomes were presented and interpreted. Results: A total of 800 participants (621 females and 179 males) were surveyed. A significant association was found between daily fruit intake and age (p=0.000) and gender (p=0.009). A significant association was observed between the consumption of daily 2 cups of vegetables and age (p=0.000) and gender (p=0.289). The majority of participants (57.61%) had fruits in the evening between lunch and dinner. The majority of females (281) had two cups of vegetables daily, followed by males (73). Approximately 32% of the participants consumed green leafy vegetables 2 times a week, and 27% consumed vegetables once a week. Of the 800 participants, 11% experienced constipation, 62% used digestive biscuits, and 85% did not use fibre supplements to relieve constipation. Conclusion: The findings showed age and gender differences in adult fibre consumption, highlighting the critical role that dietary fibre plays in maintaining good health and well-being. Keywords Age, Gender, Dietary fibre, Questionnaire, Survey