As Londoners embrace their New Year health resolutions, a new study has uncovered a significant gap between their intentions and their knowledge regarding dietary fibre. Research commissioned by the Weetabix Food Company, published on 12th January 2026, shows that while motivation is high, understanding of how much fibre is needed is critically low.
The Confidence-Reality Gap in Fibre Knowledge
The survey of adults in the capital presents a striking contradiction. Nearly six in ten Londoners (58%) report feeling confident about their knowledge of fibre. However, this self-assurance is misplaced. The data reveals that fewer than one in five (17%) can correctly identify the official recommended daily fibre intake of 30 grams. This suggests a widespread underestimation, with the average guess among respondents falling well short of the target.
This disconnect is further highlighted by the fact that over half of Londoners believe they are meeting their daily fibre goals, a belief that the evidence strongly contradicts. The findings point to a clear need for better public guidance and practical, actionable advice to bridge this knowledge deficit.
Barriers to a Higher Fibre Diet
Encouragingly, the importance of fibre is not lost on Londoners. The vast majority recognise its value, with digestive health cited as the primary reason. The research also found that 62% associate fibre with improved physical health, and 59% link it to better mental wellbeing.
Despite this awareness, significant barriers persist. For those not reaching their daily targets, a simple lack of knowledge is the most common obstacle, cited by just over one in five people. The fast-paced rhythm of city life also plays a role, with time pressures making dietary changes challenging. Cost is a concern for some, even though many fibre-rich foods like beans, lentils, and wholegrains are notably affordable.
Simple Swaps and a Strong Appetite for Learning
There is a strong desire for change. More than half of Londoners (58%) express a wish to learn how to increase fibre in their diet, an enthusiasm that is even more pronounced among younger adults. Many are already taking steps, with over 40% having made dietary adjustments in the past year to include more fibre.
Consultant Dietitian to Weetabix, Sian Porter, offers straightforward advice for those looking to improve. "The easiest ways to increase fibre are to add fibre-rich ingredients to meals and make simple additions or swaps," she says. Her tips include adding fruit to cereal, sprinkling seeds on yoghurt, choosing wholegrain versions of pasta and rice, and swapping snacks like crisps for nuts. She emphasises building changes gradually and drinking plenty of fluids.
When seeking reliable information, Londoners are most likely to turn to government health websites (21%) and fitness professionals (16%), with word of mouth, trusted brands, and social media also playing key roles, particularly for younger residents.
With motivation clearly present and knowledge identified as the main hurdle, experts stress that small, consistent changes can have a substantial impact. Starting the day with a fibre-rich, wholegrain breakfast is highlighted as one simple and effective strategy to help Londoners close their fibre gap and support their long-term health goals.
