Understanding dietary fibre in healthcare: clinical relevance and practical guidance

Dietary fibre has an important role in gastrointestinal function, metabolic health and chronic disease prevention. However, fibre intake across the UK remains below recommended levels in adults and children, highlighting the need for effective dietary education and health promotion. This article provides nurses with an evidence-based overview of the health benefits, physiological functions and practical application of dietary fibre in clinical practice. It describes different types of dietary fibre - including soluble and insoluble fibre, resistant starch and prebiotics - alongside their physiological functions and dietary sources. The authors consider the role of dietary fibre in relation to gastrointestinal health, cardiovascular disease, metabolic health and selected clinical conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome and coeliac disease. They also outline practical guidance to support safe increases in fibre intake and help patients achieve recommended intakes through food-based approaches. An understanding of the health benefits and clinical considerations associated with dietary fibre can support nurses in their health promotion and patient education roles, enabling the delivery of safe, evidence-based and personalised nutritional advice across a range of healthcare settings.