Celebrate International Coworking Day with Feasts, Fun & Festive Drinks

International Coworking Day (celebrated every year on 9th August) is more than just a nod to shared office spaces, it's a celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration. 

Whether you're based in a buzzing coworking hub, running your own co-op space, or working from home alongside virtual colleagues, this is the perfect opportunity to come together, say cheers, and enjoy a little midweek joy.

Why not mark the occasion with mini impromptu feasts, planned parties, and DIY cocktails and mocktails? Here’s how to make the day memorable for everyone in your shared space—whether you're ten desks strong or a remote crew on Zoom.

1. Mini Impromptu Feasts: Bring What You’ve Got

Start the day with a casual call-out: “Bring a bite to share!” You’d be surprised how quickly a snack table can fill up.

Easy Ideas:

A pot of homemade hummus and veggie sticks

Cheese and crackers from a local deli

That leftover cake from someone’s birthday yesterday (we see you, office fridge!)

A tray of samosas or mini sausage rolls from the corner shop

No pressure, no formality—just a table of little joys and good conversation.

2. Planned Parties: Coworking with a Twist

If your space leans more structured, get a small team to organise a themed bash. A little effort goes a long way in creating workplace camaraderie.

Themes to try:

Around the World: Everyone brings a dish or drink from their culture or favourite cuisine.

Dress as Your Job: An ironic fancy dress moment, think designers in berets, marketers in capes.

Taco Thursday (even if it’s Friday): Order in or make a taco bar with toppings for all dietary preferences.

Don’t forget music! A communal playlist can spark conversations between even the shyest coworkers.

3. Cocktails and Mocktails: After-Hours Cheers

Toast to the power of coworking with a drinks station featuring both boozy and alcohol-free options. A mini "cocktail hour" from 4 pm can be the highlight of the day.

Easy favourites:

Cocktails:

Classic Mojito

Aperol Spritz

Espresso Martini (for a late afternoon pick-me-up)

Mocktails:

Cucumber Mint Fizz (sparkling water, lime, mint, cucumber)

Tropical Sunrise (pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine)

Virgin Bloody Mary (tomato juice, spices, celery stick)

Encourage people to swap recipes, or even hold a quick “make your own mocktail” contest with a prize for the most creative combo.

Why It Matters

Coworking isn't just about shared printers and good Wi-Fi. It’s about building networks, friendships, and fresh ideas across disciplines. Celebrating this growing movement with a feast or drink in hand is a joyful reminder that community can be found, and built, wherever we work.

So whether you’re coworking from a slick city hub or your kitchen table with remote pals, use 9th August to raise a glass, share a snack, and toast to a new way of working that’s collaborative, colourful, and deeply human.

Cheers to International Coworking Day!

May your snacks be plentiful and your Wi-Fi strong.

Honouring International Day of the World's Indigenous People with Food and Drink

A Celebration of Cultural Roots. Because We Are All Indigenous to Somewhere

Every year on 9 August, the world pauses to mark International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, a time to recognise and honour the resilience, wisdom, and cultural heritage of Indigenous communities across the globe. 

It’s a day for reflection, education, and, importantly, appreciation. 

And what better way to appreciate a culture than through its food and drink?

This year, consider marking the day with a respectful culinary journey that acknowledges the ancestral flavours and time-honoured traditions of Indigenous people — not just globally, but locally too. After all, we are all indigenous to somewhere, and embracing those roots can be both an act of celebration and solidarity.

Understanding the Day

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was first proclaimed by the UN in 1994. It raises awareness of the unique cultures and challenges faced by Indigenous communities, and amplifies their voices in conversations around human rights, environmental protection, and cultural preservation.

But it isn’t only about policy or activism — it’s about recognising the deep contributions Indigenous people make to global heritage, including culinary traditions that have endured for centuries.

Celebrating with Respectful Food and Drink

Rather than appropriating dishes, the goal is to appreciate, learn, and support. Whether through cooking Indigenous recipes, supporting Indigenous-owned producers, or simply taking time to explore the ingredients and stories behind traditional meals, you can join this global celebration with intention and care.

Global Indigenous Dishes to Explore:

North America: Try Three Sisters Stew, a Native American dish built around corn, beans, and squash — ingredients known as the "three sisters" that sustain both land and community.

Australia: Explore kangaroo tail stew or dishes featuring native bush foods like wattleseed, lemon myrtle, and finger lime, often used in Aboriginal cuisine.

South America: Indigenous Quechua and Aymara cuisines feature quinoa, llama meat, and potatoes. Try a simple quinoa soup infused with herbs and Andean chillies.

Africa: From the Berbers of North Africa to the San people of Southern Africa, traditional stews, flatbreads, and fermented drinks such as injera or mahewu offer deep cultural connections.

Asia: Explore millet-based dishes and wild greens used by Indigenous groups in northeast India or the native peoples of Siberia who traditionally cook with game and fish.

New Zealand (Aotearoa): Prepare a version of hangi, a Māori cooking method involving earth ovens — or try smoky, slow-roasted meats with kumara (sweet potato).

Indigenous Drinks to Sample:

Chicha morada: A traditional Peruvian drink made from purple corn, cloves, and pineapple.

Yerba maté: A social drink rooted in Guaraní and other Indigenous South American cultures.

Juniper tea or cedar tea: Used in traditional healing among various North American Indigenous peoples.

Mahewu: A fermented maize drink popular among Bantu-speaking communities.

Kava: A ceremonial drink from the Pacific Islands known for its calming effects.

Support Indigenous Producers

You can also mark the day by seeking out Indigenous-owned businesses, food producers, artists, and chefs. Purchase wild rice from Ojibwe growers, bush spices from Aboriginal collectives, or seed-saving kits from Indigenous gardening projects. These choices help support sustainability, food sovereignty, and cultural continuity.

Celebrate Your Own Indigenous Roots

You don’t have to look far to join in. Consider exploring the foods of your own heritage — perhaps your ancestors cultivated rye on the Scottish coast, fished the Irish lochs, or gathered mushrooms in Eastern Europe. Research traditional dishes from your ancestral homeland and cook something that reconnects you with the foodways of your past.

A Mindful Celebration

Marking International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples through food is not about trendiness or exoticism — it’s about respect, acknowledgement, and reconnection. Food tells the story of place, people, and perseverance. Let’s listen.

So gather around the table, share a story or two, honour the land that feeds us — and raise a glass (or a gourd, or a coconut shell) to the Indigenous peoples of the world.

We are all indigenous to somewhere. Let’s never forget it.

Missed Watermelon Day? Here’s Why You Should Celebrate the Whole of August Instead

August 3rd might have quietly slipped by you, and with it, National Watermelon Day. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. 

Many of us were too caught up in the busy summer bustle to notice the calendar nod to this juicy summertime staple.

But here’s the thing: watermelon deserves far more than just a single day of recognition. In fact, we’re calling it! August should be Watermelon Month.

Why Watermelon Deserves a Month of Celebration

1. It’s peak season!

Watermelon is at its absolute best in August. Sweet, refreshing, and perfectly hydrating, it’s everything we crave during warm days and sultry evenings.

2. It’s hydrating and healthy.

With around 92% water content, watermelon is a delicious way to stay cool and hydrated. It's also a source of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and the amino acid citrulline, which supports heart health and muscle recovery.

3. It’s versatile.

Think watermelon is just for slicing and snacking? Think again. From feta and mint salads to watermelon granitas, cocktails, and even grilled wedges, this fruit can surprise you with its adaptability in both sweet and savoury dishes.

4. It brings people together.

Picnics, BBQs, pool parties, and garden gatherings—there’s something inherently joyful about sharing a big slice of watermelon. It’s nostalgic, fun, and a little bit messy in the best possible way.

How to Celebrate Watermelon All August Long

Create a watermelon recipe challenge.

Try a new watermelon-based recipe each week. Get creative: watermelon gazpacho, salsa, skewers with halloumi, smoothies, sorbet…

Host a ‘Missed Watermelon Day’ picnic.

Invite friends or neighbours for a retro-style picnic with watermelon centrepieces, games, and themed snacks. Think seed-spitting contests, watermelon carving, or even a pink and green dress code!

Sip it.

Infuse your water with watermelon and mint, blend up a frosty watermelon daiquiri, or make a non-alcoholic agua fresca. Hydration has never tasted this good.

Support local growers.

If you’re in the UK, hunt down British-grown watermelons at farm shops or greengrocers. While they’re less common than imported varieties, local options help cut food miles and support regional agriculture.

Didn’t Mark the Third? Make It a Month Instead

Missing a single calendar day isn’t the end of the world. But turning it into a month-long celebration? That’s a deliciously good idea.

So go on! Slice it, dice it, blend it, and share it. Celebrate the simple joy of watermelon all August long. It’s never too late to honour summer’s juiciest icon.

Raise a Glass to International Beer Day: Cheers to a Global Tradition!

On the first Friday of every August, or August 5th for some traditionalists, beer lovers across the world unite to celebrate one of the oldest and most beloved beverages in human history, International Beer Day. 

What began in 2007 as a small celebration in a California bar has since grown into a global festivity, with people from over 200 cities in nearly 80 countries clinking glasses in the name of beer.

A Brief History of Beer

Beer is one of the earliest recorded recipes in the world. From ancient Mesopotamian brews to medieval monastic ales, the process of brewing and enjoying beer has evolved over thousands of years. Today, the variety is staggering—from bitter IPAs and creamy stouts to fruity saisons and refreshing lagers.

The Purpose of International Beer Day

International Beer Day isn't just about drinking (although that's certainly part of it). The celebration has three main aims:

To gather with friends and enjoy the taste of beer.

To celebrate those responsible for brewing and serving beer.

To unite the world under the banner of beer by celebrating the beers of all nations together on a single day.

How to Celebrate International Beer Day

1. Visit a Local Brewery

Support your local economy and discover unique brews by visiting nearby craft breweries. Many offer tours and tasting flights, so you can experience the brewing process and sample a range of flavours.

2. Try a New Style or Foreign Beer

Expand your palate by choosing something outside your comfort zone. Whether it's a Belgian Trappist ale, a Japanese rice lager, or a Mexican Vienna-style beer, use the day to explore the world's brewing diversity.

3. Host a Beer Tasting

Gather a few friends and turn your home into a mini beer festival. Pick up an assortment of local and international beers, create some tasting notes, and pair them with cheeses, meats, or pub-style snacks.

4. Raise a Toast to the Brewers and Bartenders

Don’t forget the people behind the pints. Whether it’s your favourite bartender at the local or a hardworking craft brewer, a quick thanks (and maybe a tip) goes a long way.

Beer and British Culture

In the UK, beer is more than just a drink—it’s a social glue. From the snug corners of ancient country pubs to bustling urban taprooms, beer has long played a central role in our cultural and community life. British real ales, IPAs, bitters, and porters continue to influence brewers worldwide.

International Beer Day is a great excuse to rediscover classics like:

London Pride

Timothy Taylor’s Landlord

St Austell Tribute

Thornbridge Jaipur

Beavertown Gamma Ray

Or delve into the newer craft scene with beers from Cloudwater, Verdant, or Northern Monk.

Drink Responsibly and Celebrate Mindfully

As always, moderation is key. International Beer Day is a celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and community—not overindulgence.

So, this August, whether you're enjoying a cold pint in your local, sipping a rare find in a craft bar, or simply relaxing with a few bottles at home, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and global unity that beer represents.

Cheers to International Beer Day!

Celebrating Lammas Day and Lammas Week: A Feast of First Fruits and Community Traditions

As the golden fields of grain begin to bow under the weight of ripened heads, communities across Britain once came together to mark one of the oldest harvest festivals in the calendar, Lammas Day. 

But what is Lammas, and how can we bring this beautiful seasonal celebration into our modern lives today?

What is Lammas Day?

Lammas Day, celebrated on 1st August, marks the "loaf mass" — a traditional festival of the first wheat harvest of the year. The word Lammas comes from the Old English hlāfmæsse, literally meaning "loaf mass", referring to the practice of baking a loaf from the first flour of the season and offering it in thanks.

Though rooted in Christian customs, Lammas has pagan origins closely tied to the Celtic festival of Lughnasadh, honouring the Irish god Lugh, a deity of light, skill, and the harvest. Both traditions mark the start of the vital harvest season — a time of gratitude, gathering, and preparation.

Lammas Week: Extending the Celebration

While Lammas Day is officially the 1st of August, Lammas Week (the first week of August) is often observed with a series of community activities. It was once common for village fairs, games, and feasting to take place during this time, honouring the abundance of the earth and the hard work of farmers and bakers alike.

Traditional Lammas Activities

1. Baking Bread from Scratch

The central tradition of Lammas is baking a homemade loaf. Traditionally, this would be made from the season's first harvested grain and taken to church to be blessed. You can revive this lovely ritual by baking your own Lammas loaf — perhaps shaping it with a sheaf or corn motif.

2. Visiting Local Farmers’ Markets

Lammas is all about local abundance. Spend time at a nearby farmers' market or pick-your-own farm. Buy seasonal fruit and veg such as blackberries, courgettes, tomatoes, and early apples.

3. Hosting a Harvest Meal

Invite friends or neighbours over for a seasonal feast. Include fresh breads, hearty grain salads, roasted root vegetables, and berry-based desserts.

4. Making Corn Dollies

An old English tradition, corn dollies were woven from the last sheaf of wheat to house the spirit of the harvest and ensure good luck for the year to come. Try your hand at weaving simple shapes, or create a decorative Lammas centrepiece for your table.

5. Nature Walks and Gratitude Rituals

Lammas is a time to be mindful of nature’s cycle. Go for a walk in the countryside, collect wildflowers or seeds, and reflect on what you’re grateful for — not just in food, but in life.

Modern Lammas: Ideas for Today

Start a Gratitude Journal — reflect on the 'harvests' in your own life: achievements, relationships, or personal growth.

Create a Lammas altar — with seasonal produce, grains, candles in amber and gold tones, and symbols of the sun or wheat.

Volunteer at a local food bank — honour the spirit of community and sharing that defines Lammas.

Try a foraged food recipe — such as nettle soup, elderberry syrup, or blackberry crumble.

Share a post on social media about Lammas traditions — reviving awareness of seasonal festivals helps preserve our cultural heritage.

Bringing Back a Forgotten Festival

In our fast-paced, digital world, taking time to observe the seasons and celebrate nature’s bounty can be grounding and fulfilling. Lammas reminds us of our connection to the land, the value of community, and the importance of sharing what we have.

Whether you bake a simple loaf of bread or spend the week engaging in gratitude and giving, celebrating Lammas can bring a sense of rootedness and joy to early August.

Have you ever celebrated Lammas or another harvest festival? Share your experiences and traditions in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us in your Lammas loaf pics! #LammasWeek #LoafMass #HarvestCelebration

Ty Nant Acquires Strathmore Water from AG Barr

Ty Nant, the fast-growing premium bottled water company, is proud to announce its acquisition of Strathmore Water from AG Barr plc. 

The deal marks a significant moment for two of Britain’s most respected water brands and reinforces Ty Nant’s commitment to celebrating regional heritage, quality, and long-term investment in British manufacturing.

With a rich Scottish provenance and decades of brand equity, Strathmore has become a trusted name across the UK in hospitality, foodservice, sports and leisure. The acquisition ensures that Strathmore will continue to be bottled at source in Forfar, Scotland, and that every job at the site has been safeguarded as part of the transaction.

“This is a brand with a deep legacy and a loyal following, and we are honoured to be entrusted with its next chapter,” Raminder Sidhu, Chairman and Director at Ty Nant told That's Food and Drink.

“At the heart of Strathmore’s success is the incredible team in Forfar. Their professionalism, passion and care are a true testament to the strength of the brand and the business. We’re proud to welcome them into the Ty Nant family and excited to invest further in their future.”

Ty Nant extends its sincere thanks to AG Barr for their outstanding stewardship of Strathmore over the past two decades. “AG Barr have been exemplary custodians of the brand and the Forfar operation,” added Sidhu. “We are grateful for their partnership and support during this transition, and for the strong platform they’ve built, both in market and on the ground.”

The acquisition of Strathmore comes at a pivotal time for Ty Nant, which has seen exceptional growth in the past 24 months and now supplies some of the world’s leading hotels, retailers, and cultural institutions. The addition of Strathmore enhances Ty Nant’s operational scale and geographic reach, while maintaining the distinct identities of both brands.

Ty Nant will continue to operate Strathmore as a proudly Scottish brand, investing in sustainability, customer partnerships, and the Forfar site as a long-term strategic asset.

www.tynant.com

From Baths to Showers: How Much Can a Family Save on Water and Bills?

Switching from baths to showers isn’t just better for the environment, it can also save a typical UK household hundreds of pounds a year. 

Let’s break down the numbers for a family of four (two adults, two children).

🚿 Water Usage: Baths vs Showers

Activity Average Use per Person Daily Total for 4 People Annual Total

Bath 80 litres 320 litres 116,800 litres

Shower 40 litres 160 litres 58,400 litres

Switching from baths to showers saves: 58,400 litres per year

Water Costs in the UK (2024–2025)

Average combined water and sewerage cost: £3.50 per 1,000 litres

Cost per litre: £0.0035

 Money saved annually:

58, 400 litres × £0.0035 = £204.40

58,400 litres × £0.0035=£204.40

Annual Savings for Your Family

Water saved: 58,400 litres

Money saved: £204.40

Bonus: Less energy needed for heating water = even more savings

Want to Save Even More?

Install a water-efficient showerhead (uses 25–30 litres per shower)

Time your showers, each minute saved cuts ~10 litres

Use a shower timer or playlist to keep things short and sweet

Over a decade, this simple switch could save your household more than £2,000 in water bills alone – and help conserve over half a million litres of water.

We will cover more water saving ideas in future blogposts.

Is Drinking Matcha Good for You? A Look at the Health Benefits – and a Caution for Vegans and Vegetarians

Matcha has become one of the most popular health drinks in recent years, often hailed as a superfood and embraced for its vibrant green colour, earthy flavour, and supposed myriad health benefits. 

But is it all green goodness? Recent concerns have surfaced about matcha’s potential impact on iron absorption – particularly in those who follow vegetarian or vegan diets. Let’s sift the facts from the froth.

What is Matcha?

Matcha is a type of powdered green tea made from specially grown and processed tea leaves. 

Unlike traditional green tea, where leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha involves consuming the whole ground leaf, which means you get a more concentrated dose of its nutrients, and also its potential downsides.

The Claimed Health Benefits of Matcha

Matcha is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which are known for their disease-fighting properties. Here are some of the commonly cited benefits:

Rich in Antioxidants

Matcha contains up to 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea. These compounds help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

Boosts Energy and Focus

The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha provides a calm, sustained energy boost without the jittery crash associated with coffee.

Supports Weight Management

Some studies suggest matcha can help increase metabolism and fat burning during exercise.

Heart Health

Regular green tea consumption has been linked to reduced LDL cholesterol and improved cardiovascular health – matcha may offer similar benefits, potentially more so due to its potency.

Improved Mood and Mental Clarity

L-theanine promotes relaxation and alertness, which is why Buddhist monks have long used matcha during meditation.

The Iron Absorption Question

Now for the more controversial aspect: can drinking too much matcha inhibit iron absorption?

Here's what the research shows:

Tea Polyphenols and Iron: Matcha, like all green tea, contains polyphenols (tannins) which can inhibit the absorption of non-haem iron – the type of iron found in plant-based foods. This is especially relevant for vegetarians and vegans, whose diets rely entirely on non-haem iron sources such as lentils, beans, and leafy greens.

Dose Matters: The issue becomes more pronounced with excessive consumption – think several cups a day, especially if consumed with or around meals.

Not Unique to Matcha: This is not a problem exclusive to matcha. Black tea, coffee, and even some herbs and spices can also inhibit iron absorption to some degree.

Can You Still Enjoy Matcha as a Vegan or Vegetarian?

Yes, but timing and moderation are key. Here’s how to enjoy matcha without compromising your iron levels:

Avoid drinking matcha with meals. Wait at least an hour after eating iron-rich foods before having a cup.

Pair iron-rich meals with vitamin C, which boosts non-haem iron absorption (e.g., add bell peppers or lemon juice to your dishes).

Stick to 1–2 servings per day unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.

Get your iron levels checked regularly, especially if you’re at risk of deficiency.

Matcha is a wonderful beverage with a host of proven health benefits, but like all superfoods, it's best enjoyed in balance. If you're a vegetarian or vegan, don’t panic, just be strategic. The polyphenols in matcha may slightly reduce iron absorption, but this can easily be offset with good meal planning and a watchful eye on consumption.

So yes, have your ceremonial-grade matcha latte, savour the zen of your morning whisking ritual, just don’t overdo it, especially not on an empty stomach after your spinach and lentil curry.

The Supplement Controversy: What’s Behind the Criticism of Vitamins and Minerals?

In recent decades, the use of vitamins, minerals, and food supplements has gone from niche to mainstream.

From multivitamins to targeted formulations for sleep, immunity, or joint health, the shelves of health shops and online stores are overflowing with products that claim to enhance wellbeing. 

Yet, despite consumer enthusiasm, some scientists and medical professionals continue to cast doubt on the benefits of supplements, calling them unnecessary, ineffective, or even harmful.

But what’s behind this scepticism? And could there be more to the story than pure scientific concern?

The Anti-Supplement Sentiment

Since the 1990s, several high-profile reports have claimed dietary supplements offer no meaningful health benefits and may, in some cases, be dangerous in large doses. 

Some researchers argue that people in developed countries who eat a balanced diet are unlikely to be deficient in most vitamins or minerals, and therefore don’t need supplements at all. 

But this begs the question: What is a balanced diet? And does everyone have access to a balance diet? For example, can poorer people in inner city areas or elderly people on a fixed income living in an isolated rural community afford or even find sources for a balance diet? 

Others take a firmer stance, warning that supplements could pose health risks, citing studies linking high doses of beta-carotene or vitamin E with increased cancer risk in certain populations. These conclusions are often amplified in the media, giving the impression that supplements are not just useless but potentially hazardous.

The Pharmaceutical Connection

A much lesser-known but highly revealing incident occurred in the early 1990s when a German research scientist inadvertently made a bombshell admission during a live BBC Radio Four interview. 

In an unguarded moment, it's theorised that he might not have realised it was a live broadcast, he revealed that his widely cited anti-supplement report had been funded by a major German pharmaceutical company. The company, he said, was “concerned” that widespread supplement use might reduce public reliance on pharmaceutical drugs, potentially impacting the profits of the company who had funded his research. 

The comment caused a stir at the time in alternative health circles but was largely ignored by the  mainstream media.

Nevertheless, it cast a long shadow over future criticism of supplements, raising serious ethical questions about the neutrality of scientific research when funding sources have a vested interest in the outcome.

Who Benefits from Discrediting Supplements?

While not every critic of supplements is on a pharmaceutical payroll, the incident illustrates a broader issue: conflicts of interest in medical research. Pharmaceutical companies, like any business, are driven by profit, and a population that turns to non-prescription alternatives may pose a financial threat.

It's worth noting that the pharmaceutical industry has deep pockets and a powerful influence over research funding, policy recommendations, and even medical education. By contrast, most supplement companies are relatively small players, and few have the budget or clout to influence public health messaging on the same scale.

The Role of Balanced Evidence

None of this is to say that all supplements are safe or effective. There are certainly cases where excessive supplementation has caused harm, and the unregulated nature of some online sales is a valid concern. However, a growing body of research suggests that specific groups, such as vegans, the elderly, people with chronic illness, and those living in northern latitudes, can benefit significantly from targeted supplements like vitamin D, B12, or iron.

In fact, many doctors themselves now recommend supplements in certain cases, particularly as nutritional needs vary and modern diets often fall short of ideal.

A Call for Transparency

What this controversy highlights most clearly is the need for transparency in scientific research. Consumers deserve to know who funds the studies that influence public health guidelines. They also deserve balanced information that neither demonises nor blindly promotes supplements.

Rather than outright dismissal, a more nuanced, evidence-based approach is needed—one that considers individual dietary needs, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors, while remaining alert to the influence of commercial interests in shaping scientific narratives.

The question isn’t whether supplements are good or bad, it’s which supplements, for whom, and under what circumstances. Dismissing them wholesale may be not only inaccurate but misleading, especially when financial interests lurk in the background. As always, following the money can be as revealing as following the science.

What is Fibremaxxing and Should You Be Doing It?

In the ever-evolving world of wellness trends, “fibremaxxing” has recently stepped into the spotlight. Like many diet trends that begin on social media, it sounds catchy and science-backed, but what does it really mean, and is it right for you?

Let’s take a closer look at what fibremaxxing involves, the potential benefits, and the possible pitfalls.

What is Fibremaxxing?

Fibremaxxing is a diet trend that involves significantly increasing your daily intake of dietary fibre, sometimes far beyond recommended guidelines, with the aim of improving digestion, increasing satiety, aiding weight loss, and improving gut health.

It’s become particularly popular among those looking to manage their weight naturally, curb cravings, and optimise gut microbiome diversity without relying heavily on calorie counting.

The focus is on whole foods rich in fibre, such as:

Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans)

Whole grains (brown rice, oats, quinoa)

Fruits and vegetables (especially skins and leafy greens)

Nuts and seeds

High-fibre fortified products

The Pros of Fibremaxxing

1. Keeps You Fuller for Longer

Fibre slows digestion and adds bulk to your meals, meaning you feel satisfied for longer. This can help curb snacking and reduce overeating.

2. Supports Gut Health

Soluble fibre feeds beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to a more diverse and resilient microbiome. A happy gut can lead to improvements in digestion, immunity, and even mental health.

3. Aids Weight Management

Many high-fibre foods are naturally low in calories and high in volume. Fibremaxxing can help you create a calorie deficit more effortlessly without feeling deprived.

4. Promotes Regularity

A diet rich in fibre helps regulate bowel movements and may help prevent constipation.

5. May Lower Disease Risk

High-fibre diets are linked to reduced risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers (especially colorectal cancer).

The Cons (and Cautions) of Fibremaxxing

1. Gastrointestinal Distress

Going from a low-fibre to a very high-fibre diet quickly can cause bloating, gas, cramping, and diarrhoea. It’s essential to increase fibre slowly and drink plenty of water.

2. Nutrient Absorption Issues

Too much fibre may hinder the absorption of certain nutrients like iron, zinc, calcium, and magnesium—especially if the fibre intake is extremely high and from supplements rather than food.

3. Over-reliance on Processed "High-Fibre" Products

Some fibremaxxing enthusiasts turn to fortified protein bars, fibre drinks, and powders. These can contain added sugars, additives, and lack the benefits of whole plant foods.

4. Risk of Masking Disordered Eating

For some, the pursuit of "filling up" on high-fibre foods can become obsessive and mask restrictive eating patterns. It’s important to view fibre as part of a balanced, flexible approach—not a rigid rulebook.

5. Not Suitable for Everyone

People with certain conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, or those on low-residue diets may find fibremaxxing exacerbates symptoms.

Tips for Safe and Sustainable Fibremaxxing

Start gradually: Increase your fibre intake over a few weeks to allow your gut to adjust.

Hydrate well: Fibre absorbs water, you must drink drink more fluids to avoid constipation or discomfort.

Diversify your sources: Focus on whole foods and a variety of fibre types (soluble and insoluble).

Listen to your body: If something feels off, bloated, sluggish, or painful, pull back and consult a dietitian.

Don’t forget balance: Fibre is great, but so are healthy fats, protein, and other vital nutrients.

Fibremaxxing can be a beneficial approach to health and weight management when done mindfully and in balance with other dietary needs. While fibre is an essential part of a healthy diet, more is not always better—especially if it’s leading to discomfort or disordered habits.

As with most things in nutrition, moderation, variety, and personalisation are key. If you're considering fibremaxxing, start slow, stay hydrated, and consider consulting a registered dietitian for guidance tailored to your body’s needs.

Have you tried fibremaxxing, or are you curious about increasing your fibre intake? Let’s talk in the comments below!