I’m a Doctor – This Is Why Protein Is Out in 2026 (and What’s In Instead)
BRITS are being told to forget their protein obsession in 2026 – as doctors warn a new nutrition trend called “fibremaxxing” could be key to appetite control, weight management and long-term health.
After years of high-protein diets dominating headlines and supermarket shelves, fibre is finally taking centre stage – with growing evidence showing most adults are still not getting enough. In the UK, average fibre intake sits at around two-thirds of the recommended level.
Fibremaxxing, which simply means deliberately increasing fibre intake through foods like vegetables, beans, whole grains and fruit, is gaining traction as research links fibre to everything from blood sugar control to heart health and disease risk.
Dr Asiya Maula of The Health Suite says the shift reflects a growing understanding of how the body actually regulates appetite and metabolism.
“Protein is important, but it’s been over-prioritised,” she said. “Fibre is what most people are missing – and it plays a much bigger role in fullness, blood sugar stability and long-term health than many realise.”
Why fibre is taking over in 2026
Recent studies have strengthened the case for fibre. Research published in 2025 found that increasing fibre intake was linked to improved insulin sensitivity and lower risk of cardiovascular disease, while other studies have shown that fibre helps regulate hormones linked to hunger and cravings.
“Fibre slows digestion and reduces sharp blood sugar spikes,” Dr Maula explained. “That means fewer cravings, more stable energy and better appetite control throughout the day.”
Unlike protein powders or ultra-processed diet foods, fibre also feeds beneficial gut bacteria, which researchers increasingly link to metabolic and immune health.
“We’re learning that fibre doesn’t just pass through the body,” she said. “It actively supports processes that protect long-term health, including heart health and inflammation control.”
Why protein is taking a back seat
Experts say the problem with protein-heavy diets is not protein itself, but what gets pushed out to make room for it.
“When people focus obsessively on protein, they often crowd out fibre-rich foods,” Dr Maula said. “That can leave people constipated, craving sugar, or feeling sluggish – even if they’re technically ‘hitting their macros’.”
She adds that fibremaxxing is appealing because it focuses on adding foods, rather than restriction.
“It’s about eating more vegetables, beans, oats and whole foods – not cutting everything out,” she said. “That makes it far more sustainable.”
How to fibremaxx safely
Dr Maula stresses that fibre increases should be gradual.
“Suddenly doubling fibre overnight can cause bloating or discomfort,” she said. “The key is slow, steady increases with plenty of fluids.”
She recommends prioritising whole foods over supplements, and aiming for variety rather than obsessing over numbers.
“Fibremaxxing isn’t about extremes,” she said. “It’s about feeding your body properly and letting appetite and energy regulate themselves naturally.”
Dr Maula added: “2026 will be the year people realise health isn’t about eating more protein – it’s about eating smarter. And fibre is at the centre of that shift.”
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