A New
Recommendation for
Dietary Fiber in Childhood
Williams CL; Bollella M; Wynder EL.
Pediatrics, 1995 Nov, 96(5 Pt 2):985-8.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVE.
The
consumption of dietary fiber in childhood is associated with
important health benefits, especially with respect to promoting
normal laxation. Dietary fiber also may help reduce the future
risk of cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and adult-onset
diabetes. At present, there are few specific guidelines for
dietary fiber intake in childhood. Our goals were to review the
benefits and risks of dietary fiber in childhood and to propose a
safe and effective quantitative recommendation for the US
pediatric population.
METHOD.
Current
intake of dietary fiber in childhood was reviewed, including data
from the US Department of Agriculture Nationwide Food Consumption
(1987-1988) and National Health and Nutrition Examination II
(1976-1980) Survey. Current intake was compared with existing
fiber recommendations, including the 0.5-g/kg guideline proposed
by the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition.
Recommended fiber intake was reviewed with respect to levels
required for specific health benefits, as well as levels that may
result in adverse health effects.
RESULTS AND
CONCLUSIONS.
A
new recommendation for dietary fiber intake was developed, based
on the age of the child, health benefits, and safety concerns. We
recommended that children older than 2 years of age consume a
minimal amount of dietary fiber equivalent to age plus 5 g/d. A
safe range of dietary fiber intake for children is suggested to
be between age plus 5 and age plus 10 g/d. This range of dietary
fiber intake is thought to be safe even if intake of some
vitamins and minerals is marginal, should provide enough fiber
for normal laxation, and may help prevent future chronic disease.
