Q. I am trying to increase the amount of fiber in my daily diet and have some questions. This one concerns broccoli, specifically, and similar vegetables in general.  Is the nutritional (e.g., fiber) benefit the same for both the crown and the stem of the broccoli?  Is there nutritional benefit found in the crowns that isn't found in the stalks? Also, as an aside but related question, I've read on some laxative boxes that prolonged use of the product reduces your body's ability to "get the job done."  Does a similar problem arise if a person begins eating excess fiber in their daily diet?  I've recently "discovered" flaxseed and really enjoy its flavor in salads, cereal, meat dishes, etc.  Is it possible to overdue one's fiber intake?

A.  Adding fiber to your daily intake is a real plus. The florets and the stalks in broccoli have almost the same fiber.  The stalks contain a little more but not much.  1 cup of broccoli stalks contains 3-4 grams of fiber.  Your daily intake should contain at least 35 grams, which should be easy for you to obtain. The resistance to a laxative and its action on the body is not the same as the body learning to digest and adapt to the fiber load in the diet.  Your body will learn to digest the fiber and after awhile your intestine will develop the Micro flora that will allow the high fiber foods to be more easily digested.  Thus the side effects of gas and bloating should subside to a large degree. The benefit and effectiveness the fiber has on gastric motility should only improve. It is very important that you always consume an ample amount of water and fluids with the fiber. At least 2 quarts or 8 cups of water per day.

I have never heard of fiber overdose.  If you consume too much fiber you might experience diarrhea, constipation, cramping, bloating, and/or gas. Fiber can impair the absorption of some nutrients as well but overall the benefits of adding fiber to your diet far outweigh the negatives.

I hope this helped.  Please contact me for further information or if you have another question!