
27 Hair Products So Good, You'll Send Them Straight To Your Friend Group Chat
And let's see how many of these tools and treatments make it out of the chat — hint: most of them.
1. Elizavecca Collagen Protein Treatment revives and repairs all types of hair that have endured several dye jobs, intense heat tools, or sun damage. So you can achieve your silkiest, shiniest, run-your-fingers-through-with-ease hair in next to no time!
Promising reviews:"I have tried everything on the market to fix my damaged, bleached hair that keeps breaking off. I stumbled across this hair treatment on TikTok. I had never heard of it before but decided to give it a try. I used it for the first time yesterday, and I couldn't believe how amazing it made my hair feel and look. Its sooo soft, shiny, bouncy, and nourished. My bleached rats nest now looks and feels like virgin hair again. Even my boyfriend noticed a huge difference in my hair. And you know it's a GOOD product when the boyfriend notices :D. I'm going to buy a lot more of this product." — Eline
"I have 4c hair and was looking for a protein treatment for my thin and fragile hair. I had recently used a product in my hair that had so much alcohol in it that it wreaked havoc on my hair, leaving it pretty damaged. I was very skeptical about this product because I have never seen anyone with my hair type use it. Boy was I wrong to doubt this product; it left my hair looking and feeling beautiful. I highly recommend it to anyone natural or with curly hair." — Therese-Claire
Get it from Amazon for $7.60.
And check out our full review of the Elizavecca CER-100 collagen protein treatment (#1).
2. Maple Holistics Biotin shampoo helps to improve the thickness of thinning hair. With its sulfate-free formula, over 36,000 5-star ratings can attest that the rosemary- and coconut-oil-formulated shampoo has transformed their weak, brittle, even color-treated hair, and improved scalp health tremendously — which is quite literally the root (pun intended) factor that contributes to your hair's growth and vitality.
Maple Holistics is a small personal-care brand founded by lifelong pals Ben and Motti after they searched for solutions to Ben's hair loss and scalp irritation.
Read more about how biotin shampoo could help with the fullness of hair at Cleveland Clinic.
See it in action on TikTok.
Promising reviews: "Y'all this is the holy grail of shampoo!!! I used the shampoo and conditioner and I could tell a significant difference in the volume and thickness!" — Hillary Miles
"I love this shampoo! I had gastric sleeve surgery, and my hair was very, very thin. I started taking biotin and switched to biotin shampoo, as recommended by my doctor. It doesn't make your hair grow by washing it, but it makes your hair and roots stronger. And it worked. After I used the whole bottle, my hair was stronger. I had a lot of new growth that was sticking around (the previous new growth fell out early on), and my hair was getting thicker. Eight months later, my hair is back to normal. It's longer and thicker than ever. I still use it twice a week and love it! I'm not a fan of the way it smells, but others love it when they smell my hair." — Diane J. Huff
Get it from Amazon for $11.85+ (available in four sizes and three scents).
3. Ogx Argan Oil of Morocco Curl-Defining Cream gifts your tresses with a pillowy-soft formula you can simply comb through towel-dried hair. This = beautifully defined waves and spirals, that a) don't require any post-styling if you'd prefer to skip on blasting 'em with heat and b) won't leave you with a crunchy texture or flyaways!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
A bonus? This stuff is free from parabens and provides a sulfate-free haircare system. Translation: This is gentle for use on all curl types and textures to help bump up your hair's natural strength.
My hair is the ~perfect~ combo of wavy, curly, and frizzy and this drugstore product has been a holy grail of mine for some time. I've found that it's the only formula that will give me soft, naturally curly waves come the a.m. and since I'm generally a nighttime hair washer, I have the perfect excuse to avoid blasting my hair with heat. Before hitting the pillow, I like to run my fingers through my towel-dried hair with a pea-sized amount of this, flip my mane over, and then give the ends a good scrunch. In the morn, my hair appears shiny with defined, wavy curls — we're not talking HD — but they have a nice, soft definition to them that doesn't require much styling.
Promising review:"Absolutely love this stuff! It's the one hair product I have to have. I rotate shampoos and conditioners but have never found anything to put on damp hair that I like as much as this. It says it's for curls, but works great on straight hair too. I have had super straight to very curly over the years and have loved this on all hair styles." — Bunco Queen of the Universe
Get it from Amazon for $7.97.
4. BestLand Hair Finishing Cream takes care of unruly flyways that refuse to cooperate no matter how many bobby pins you've stuck between your strands. It looks like a regular ol' tube of mascara, so you'll remember to keep it with your other touchup essentials.
www.amazon.com
Made from natural plant extracts, the serum won't leave your hair greasy.
Promising review:"No matter what I do or what expensive and high-rated product I try, my flyaways are an annoying constant. This product has completely rid me of my daily top of head flyaway frizz! I wish I would have discovered this product years ago! It smooths my hair out and truly lasts all day. Be careful, as a tiny bit goes a long way!" — RachelOK
Get it from Amazon for $5.77.
5. And Fenty Hair The Gelly Type Strong Hold Gel slicks ponytails, updos, and top knots with a high-performance styling formula that keeps 'dos in place and free of crunch, frizz, and residue. Unlike alt gels, it adds shine while actually repairing, nourishing, and hydrating the hair.
Sephora
Promising review:"I used to use eco gel for styling my curly hair, slick backs, etc., but recently I bought this gel and it is absolutely perfect!! So much better, gives me a perfect cast, keeps my hair slicked back all day, and most importantly it keeps my hair healthy and moisturized unlike some gels! 10/10 definitely recommend." — itgirlval
Get it from Sephora for $26.
6. Living Proof Instant De-Frizzer spray reduces up to 92% of frizz (!!!) so all you have to do to tackle bedhead is give your hair a nice ~spritz~ and simply comb the product through. It also softens your hair between washes and provides UV protection, all with a lightweight and wearable formula. To put it lightly, not all heroes wear capes.
Amazon
Promising reviews:"This stuff is an absolute miracle against hair static and frizz. And it smells really good, too!" — Ashley
"This stuff is pure magic! I have very curly hair that I often straighten, but even when I wear my hair curly this keeps all the frizz away. I really have never found something that comes this close to how your hair feels when you get a salon blowout! I love this stuff, although I have to say I love all the Living Proof products!" — Kelly Waterman
Get it from Amazon $33.
7. Bread Beauty Hair Mask envelops hair in thick, cloud-like softness without weighing strands down. Your hair's new BFF is packed with Australian Kakadu plum and starflower oil that, together, reinforce hair follicles — which can mean less breakage, less time spent detangling, and more velvety-soft texture. One reviewer with 3c curls can be quoted as saying that it "moisturizes thirsty curls."
Bread Beauty Supply is a Black woman–owned business that excels in creating haircare for not so basic hair. And they cater to curl types 3a–4c.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Kayla Boyd loves this — here's what she has to say: "I recently started using Bread products and I really love how lightweight and easy they are to use. Since I have mixed textured hair that's been frequently dyed, it tends to get very dry. After using this deep conditioner my hair felt so much better and softer. In addition to that, the smell is A-MA-ZING. Definitely one of my new favorite wash day products."
Promising review:"This is one of the best deep conditioners I have ever used. My hair is very curly and prone to being dry. I left it in for a couple of hours, and my curls have not looked this good in years. I've used Bread before, and the results are always the same!!!" — Rosebud827
Get it from Sephora or Bread Beauty Supply for $28.
8. Denman Hair Brush shapes curls as it detangles — yep, you read that correctly — the proof is in the TikToks, which outline the genius multifunctional design. You can also use this to blow dry and smooth your hair as well! The brush features seven rows of rounded bristles that won't tug or cause you pain as you're just trying to loosen knots and tangles after a long day of scrolling through BeautyTok.
See it in action on TikTok.
Promising reviews: " Denman is the OG holy grail for me! I have been using it since I was 17, and I am now 62! When I was younger, I wanted to straighten my naturally curly hair, and this was it with the blow dryer. Since my 30s, I embraced my natural curl, and this has still been it! I am a hairdresser and always recommend this brush. It defines my curl texture beautifully." — Veronica Salas
"TikTok made me do it. I never knew I had 3a curls until I used this brush. It evenly spreads product throughout the hair and clumps up your curls. It's just an amazing brush!" — mariela
Get it from Amazon for $21.95+ (available in six colors).
9.
Hairitage Heat Protectant Spray for Re-Heat Styling cleverly protects day-two (or -three) hair from damage with a lightweight aerosol, which can be dispersed all over dry strands before going in with your favorite heat tools. Formulated with argan oil and rice protein, you can shield your hair from temps up to 450 degrees F.
Walmart
10. Fanola No Yellow Shampoo tones and neutralizes yellow hues safely with purple pigment. The result? Icy cool blonde tresses that belong on a hairspo Pinterest board.
Promising review:"I'm not one to leave reviews...but this product deserves it! Holy cow! I was going to go into the salon to brighten my hair up, but after discovering this product I cancelled my appointment. I'm totally in love! This shampoo is not drying at all and just after two washes I achieved my desired results! I can't recommend it enough!" — Rachael B.
Get it from Amazon for $12.25+ (available in two sizes).
And check out our highlight of the Fanola No Yellow shampoo here.
11. And! John Frieda's Brilliant Brunette Shampoo elevates brown hues with shine-locking ingredients like natural cocoa and evening primrose oil. Expect deeper, richer, natural-looking shades — even after one wash.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Heather Braga says: "I recently received samples of this shampoo and conditioner and, honestly, wasn't sure if it was only for people who had dyed their hair dark. In fact, it is not! It's for brunettes of all kinds — natural and all!"
Promising review:"I purchased this John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Shampoo and my hair looks golden brown instead of brown with a lot of gray underneath. I didn't want the mess of coloring my own hair nor did I think I could do as good a job as my hairdresser, so I was so pleased that Frieda's shampoo did the job. I definitely recommend this shampoo along with the Brilliant Brunette Conditioner." — Dan Cremeans
Get it from Amazon for $10.49.
12. Pattern's The Hair Steamer maximizes the benefits of conditioners and masks and penetrates deep within your strands — while the additional diffuser attachment can be used to refresh, lift, and separate curls. Basically, this handheld device is the convenient solution to achieving hydrating, salon-worthy results at home.
Ulta Beauty
Promising review:"Oh, you sweet, sweet steamer, where have you been all my life? Listen, I have tried an overhead dryer, a heat cap, a conditioning cap, a plastic bag, and everything else to moisturize this kinky, low-pos, type 4c hair. It sounds cliché, but this steamer is everything. 1. The prongs work through my thick roots and help bring moisture to the strands. The diffuser cap is also delicious for getting to the ends. I tried using the steamer with a conditioner and with hair masks and it glided through easily, really helping the product go into my hair. You definitely should have your hair sectioned and pre-detangled before you start since the time of the steamer is about 16-18 minutes with a full cap of water." — Ulta Beauty Customer
Get it from Ulta Beauty for $169.
13. Lottabody's hair mousse foams up to define curls, and fluffs up your 'do without the weight or frizz. Enriched with lightweight oils, like coconut and shea, this product wraps hair with softer than soft hydration and shine, and leaves it smelling like a vacation. No airfare required.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Check out its result on TikTok.
Promising reviews: "I have tried many different types of foam and mousse but this is my holy grail. I plop my hair in a microfiber wrap for about 10 min, scrunch out any excess water, section my hair into two sections and apply four pumps of this mousse to each section, scrunching each time. Once it's applied, I squeeze my hair once more with my microfiber and diffuse on low heat until it's 80% dry and I'm left with lovely curls. I apply no other products, just my shampoo, conditioner, and this mousse :)" — Ashes
"First, let me start with the price. My favorite thing about this product is its price vs. its quality. Most times, we find a low or responsible-priced product...well, let's say you get what you pay for, so usually you're left disappointed, BUT this stuff is wonderful. The smell, the de-tangling ability it has, plus I love how soft my hair is and my curls. No stiff hair and, on the days I want a little more hold or crispness, I just mix some of my firmer hold mousse in with this in my hands before I apply it. Wish I knew bout this product sooner. Thanks, TikTok." — Angelia Taggarrt
Get it from Amazon for $3.98.
14. Kérastase Nutritive 8H Magic Night Serum gets to work using niacinamide and plant-based proteins that lock in moisture and hydration overnight. Perfect applied to damp or dry hair, this is worth yapping about since it treats dryness and damage as you sleep, with a shine-enhancing serum that can help protect your locks from pillow friction and frizz!
Sephora
Promising reviews:"I love this serum. I put it on before bed and then make my hair into a loose braid. Next day, hair is silky smooth and smells divine." — OBear91
"I've been using this for over a month, and I've seen a difference in my hair. It's so soft and shiny. I use it on my styled hair, and it doesn't undo my curls; it also has a nice scent. I will be repurchasing!" — YazminP21
Get it from Sephora for $62.
15. Curlsmith Multi-tasking Conditioner upgrades your hair-softening experience with a protein-packed formula that can be used so many different ways it's got my head spinning (in the best way possible). Apply it as a rinse-out, deep conditioner, or leave-in treatment to achieve your healthiest-looking, hair-commercial-flipping, frizz-free hair.
Blends of babassu, jojoba, and castor oils are there for your hair cuticles — while hemp seed and rice protein offer a plant-based alternative to animal keratin to strengthen strands.
Promising review:"I started using CurlSmith three years ago, and it is currently the only thing I use for my hair! It has made my curly hair THRIVE in a way that no other product has. The purple line was a lifesaver to restore my curls to their hydrated elasticity! I'm so grateful for this line of products. The conditioner is lightweight and moisturizing; a little goes a long way! Also, their products are a bit on the pricey side; THEY ARE WORTH IT." — Savannah
Get it from Amazon for $12.50+ (available in two sizes).
16. Up&Up 3% Salicylic Acid Shampoo tackles dry, itchy scalps and helps prevent dandruff from building up (and returning). Not to mention, it can help control symptoms of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, too. Reviewers say they prefer the scent of this over other treatments on the market — *and* this stuff is translucent, which some folks favor when taking down flakes.
Target
To learn more about how salicylic acid shampoo can help treat dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis, check out Cleveland Clinic.
Promising review:"I like this product better than T/Sal, which is also 3% salicylic acid. It lathers nicely and has a light, clean smell. It is oil-free and will not feed Malassezia, the fungus responsible for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. If salicylic acid shampoos work for you, or you want to try one, I highly recommend this. Tips: Follow with a lightweight, oil-free conditioner. Eliminating oils from your hair care regimen is one of the best ways to combat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. This shampoo will help clear out the build-up of oils and dead skin on the scalp and leave your hair feeling fresh. Give it a try!" — Eli
Get it from Target for $7.39.
17. Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair Mask quenches the thirst of dehydrated locks with a leave-in formula that can give a juicy dose of nourishment. Expect split ends to be conditioned and breakage significantly minimized — as some reviewers have noticed after two uses. AKA overprocessed, brittle, color-treated hair is no match for this glorious weekly treatment.
This antioxidant-rich formula contains rosehip oil, B-vitamins, and algae extract to restore essential moisture and hydration.
Briogeo is a Black woman-founded biz, started by Nancy Twine who has had her hand in making homemade beauty products since she was 5. She has now developed a popular haircare line that specializes in texture-specific products: from repair to volume to curl care, you'll find something here to meet your needs.
Promising review:"I haven't had my curls look this beautiful as long as I can remember. So light and soft and just lovely! I also used the shampoo and the gel, too, which I really recommend!! I also restyle when it's dry by adding some water and some of the gel, and it does a wonderful job. 😊 Favorite curl products I've used for my hair so far." — Allison P.
Get it from Amazon $12.75+ (available in four sizes).
18. Olaplex's Hair Perfector Repairing Treatment holds the title as one of the best-selling hair products for good reason. This is a star at reducing breakage and treating compromised hair. In as little as 10 minutes, texture is improved and straw-like locks are softened.
It doesn't replace your current shampoo and conditioner! You can use it before your normal wash and rinse.
Promising review:"Wow. I wish I would have taken a before picture. I had severely brittle, bleached hair and terrible split ends. After using this once (kept in hair for about four hours), my hair was noticeably softer, less straw-like at the tips, and my split ends had disappeared. It seems like the Olaplex bonded them together. I heard that whenever you use this, your hair keeps improving and healthier, and I'm looking forward to it. I plan to use it once a week." — ecyphers
Get it from Amazon for $30.
19. Carol's Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey manages curly and kinky hair — from 4c curls to 1c waves — with a lightweight pomade that reviewers mention goes on like an oil to smooth and tame frizz. I mean...the wildly delectable name alone is tempting me and my dry waves to jump headfirst into that jar.
This citrus-scented shine pomade moisturizes the hair and scalp with the help of cocoa butter and lavender and sunflower oils. Plus! It can be used to smooth edges and control frizz.
Carol's Daughter is a Brooklyn-born, Black woman-founded business. Encouraged by her mother, Carol, the creator, Lisa Price, started making homemade haircare recipes in the early '90s right from her kitchen. Fast-forward to today, and Lisa is still creating naturally derived products with a complete line in hair-, body-, and skincare for the now L'Oreal-owned company.
Promising review:"Hello, all my 4c divas. This is an amazing moisturizer. It smells good (has some beeswax) and keeps my hair shiny and protected. It does not offer any hold, but it provides moisture, shine, and a light, pleasant scent. If you are on the fence about getting this product, just do it!" — Schuyler
Get it from Amazon for $11.94.
20. Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Heat and UV Protector primes parched locks for initial post-shower styling *and* day two RE-styling. This frizz-fighting, leave-in formula detangles and shields each strand from sun rays and hot air so roots and tips of different thicknesses and textures can all receive a spritz wherever they require extra moisture.
Oh! This includes six featherlight oils, including coconut, macadamia, and argania kernel, and can be applied to both damp and dry hair for heat-styling protection or just protection from the drying effects of the sun.
Promising review:"This stuff is a miracle. I have lots of hair, but it is super fine and gets weighed down and greasy very easily, so I usually avoid conditioners and end up with parched, brittle hair. Just 3 or 4 pumps of this luscious-smelling oil go a long way. It weightlessly conditions, releases tangles, and penetrates the hair rather than coating it. I use this in conjunction with Boldify styling spray, and my hair is so full of body and texture but still soft and manageable. Best hair I've had in years. I LOVE THIS STUFF!!" — allume
Get it from Amazon for $16+ (available in three sizes).
21. Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream tames frizz and locks in moisture for naturally achievable ringlets. This leave-in conditioner defines curls and works great for those who love a heat styler or air-dryers alike.
Tap to play GIF
Check out what the BuzzFeed Shopping's deputy director Maitland Quitmeyer has to say about it:"During the summer after my sophomore year of college, I decided to cut my long hair into a lob. Once the chop occurred, my hairdresser (bless you, Andrea) told me to try Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream. And boy can I tell you, it is my DESERT ISLAND. HOLY GRAIL. hair product. It actually helps my hair dry in its natural curl formation and stay moisturized for days. It smells amazing and doesn't leave a greasy or sticky residue — it's just a miracle.
I scrunch a few pumps into my wet hair and diffuse right away. First day or two, it's nice and bouncy with tighter curls — all due to the magic combo of the cream and the diffuser, which help curls dry IN PLACE. But what I love about this curl cream is that it helps my hair look as fresh as possible until the next shampoo...four or five days later. Because my hair is pretty heavy, the curls get looser and turn into what I'd term ~bushy waves~ — but thanks to the hydrating power of the curl cream, it doesn't fully explode into a cloud of frizz."
Get it from Amazon for $36.
And check out the full review of the Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream here (#8).
22.
Sevích Hairline Shadow touches up graying roots and fills in thinning areas to give the appearance of denser, thicker hair without the fuss. If you've ever thrown your hair up and noticed areas of pesky gray or spots that are looking a lil' sparse, simply plop some color on the sponge applicator and dab it into your scalp for a fuller 'do.
This stuff is cruelty-free and contains nontoxic plant fibers and beeswax so it's safe for your skin.
Promising review:"This product is AMAZING! If you have thinning hair or graying hair, this powder is a must-have. It even creates a bit of volume in my very thin hair. I've purchased many different hair products to conceal my thinning hair, most of which are ineffective, messy, or leave my hair feeling greasy. This is super easy to use; I even use it for my sparse eyebrows. I simply use a soft, small lip liner brush to fill my brows for a natural look. I also love that it lasts till your next shampoo. At first, I didn't like the built-in sponge, but I've grown to really like it. The powder sticks to the sponge, making it easy to apply to whatever area you want to cover up, and the powder doesn't come off on pillows if you leave it on overnight." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $7.63+ (available in 13 shades).
25. RobeCurls Heatless Hair Curler Set effortlessly styles slightly damp hair to reveal soft and luscious curls overnight — without the need to blast any heat source toward your strands. Just wrap your locks around the length of the rod and let it work its magic to build volume that admirers are raving lasts all day.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
You'll get the satin curler and two scrunchies in the set.
RobeCurls is a woman-founded small business that specializes in heatless hair curling tools. Plus, this rod is designed to work with all hair types!
Promising review:" I used this for the first time and got very impressive full curls that lasted all day! I wore it overnight and found it extremely comfortable when sleeping on my back. I wore a silk turban over it because I toss and turn a lot. It was all messy in the morning, but the curls were lovely! Prettier than the curling iron without the heat and damage, so much nicer on my hair extensions. It is cute enough to wear our running errands during the day, too. Love it!" — AsInfo
Get it from Amazon for $27.99 (available in five colors).
26. Aunt Jackie's Purify Me Frizz-Fighting Moisturizing Co-Wash specializes in hydrating natural curls that have a tendency to become dry and brittle. This formula cleanses the scalp of residue, blends flaxseed and other oils from coconuts and avocados to lock in moisture between washes, and also detangles. I will now bid your frizz-filled days adieu!
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This product smells great and it really helps keep ends healthy...I love it. I swear by Aunt Jackie's flaxseed line of hair products. They are the best and very affordable compared to other natural hair products." — Jay From Trinidad
Get it from Amazon for $7.48.
27. Arvazallia Argan Oil Leave-in Treatment deeply conditions and works to repair plus restore your hair's natural strength and shine. So even over-processed, dried-out tresses have another chance at life.
amazon.com, Amazon
It treats frizz, dry scalp, and over-processed hair.
Promising reviews:"This oil is amazing!!!!! My hairstylist casually mentioned that my hair was really dry (which I knew), so I went on a hunt to find something to help it. This oil is the perfect fix! I have thick, naturally curly, frizzy hair, and in the winter, it takes a beating with the dry heat in my house. After only a few uses (I only need to use it once a week), at the next visit to my hair stylist (and ever since I started using this oil), she has commented on how much healthier and shinier my hair has been! I highly recommend this product for people with dry hair." — S. Falcone
"I have over-processed hair from both botox (similar treatment to keratin) and heat. I have naturally curly hair and, for years, have been trying to make it as straight as possible. I would botox my hair once every three months, blow dry my hair on a weekly basis, and finally flat iron on a daily basis (for the last couple of years). My hair is DEAD!!!! No life, volume, or shine. After using this product the first time, my hair immediately looked and felt softer. I have even been getting compliments on how shiny and lovely my hair looks now." — Denia1288
Get it from Amazon for $18.99.
Reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
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Among the current wave of wellness obsessions, fibermaxxing is gaining major traction. This more-is-more approach to fiber is touted on TikTok as a way to boost digestion, satiety and overall gut health while also addressing the fact that most Americans aren't getting enough. But while increasing your fiber intake has clear benefits, nutrition experts say there's a right way to do it if you want to see results. What is fibermaxxing? The TikTok trend is all about maximizing fiber intake by loading up every meal and snack with fiber-rich foods, and sometimes supplements, to support gut health, satiety, cholesterol levels, blood sugar stability and even cancer prevention. It reflects a growing shift away from protein-obsessed diets toward a stronger focus on digestive and colon health. But Jennifer House, a registered dietitian and owner of First Step Nutrition in Calgary, Alberta, cautions that if you have IBS or an inflammatory bowel condition like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, a high-fiber diet might not be ideal. 'And if you suffer from constipation, increasing fiber all at once could temporarily make the situation worse.' How much fiber do we actually need? For women ages 18 to 50, the general recommendation is 25 grams of fiber per day, and 21 grams for those 51 and older, House said. For men, it's 30 grams daily. 'Most people only get about half of the recommended amount of fiber each day,' she added. Fiber is found only in plant-based foods, and there are five main groups that provide it: vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and nuts and seeds. Of these, legumes pack the biggest punch. Just one cup of beans contains 10 to 19 grams of fiber, which can get you more than halfway to your daily target. 'Animal foods don't contain fiber, so an eating pattern that's disproportionately high in meat, dairy and eggs is more likely to fall short on fiber,' said registered dietitian Avery Zenker. The health benefits of fiber: Fiber supports healthy digestion, helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and promotes a sense of fullness that can aid in appetite and weight management. It's also linked to a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, including colorectal and colon, Zenker noted. 'Low fiber diets are linked to microbiome imbalances and lower microbial diversity, both of which are associated with increased risk of inflammatory diseases.' Different types of fiber offer different benefits. 'Soluble fiber helps regulate blood sugar and lower cholesterol — great for patients with diabetes or heart disease risk,' said Dr. Michael Ednie, founder of Bespoke Concierge MD based in Scottsdale, Arizona. This type of fiber dissolves in water to form a gel that helps lower cholesterol and regulate blood sugar. 'Insoluble fiber promotes regularity and helps prevent constipation, which is crucial for colon health,' Ednie said. Then there's prebiotic fiber, which serves as food for the beneficial bacteria in your gut. 'As those bacteria ferment prebiotic fibers, they produce short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, which have anti-inflammatory effects and support gut barrier function. Prebiotics have also been linked to improved mineral absorption and even mood regulation via the gut-brain connection,' Ednie said. Garlic, onions, bananas and asparagus are all excellent sources. Just like variety in your overall diet supports better nutrition, eating different types of fiber helps build a healthier, more resilient gut microbiome. 'Different fibers feed different strains of beneficial bacteria, which leads to better gut health, stronger immune function and lower inflammation overall,' Ednie explained. While there's no strict formula for how much of each fiber type you need, he suggests aiming for about two-thirds insoluble fiber and one-third soluble fiber. Fibermaxxing can backfire on your digestive system. While there's no official upper limit for fiber intake, increasing it too quickly can cause gas, bloating and other digestive issues like cramping, constipation and diarrhea. 'The gut bacteria essentially go into overdrive trying to process the sudden influx of fiber, producing excess gas as a byproduct,' Ednie explained. 'In rare cases, if someone dramatically increases fiber without proper hydration or pacing, it can even lead to intestinal blockages that require medical attention.' The type of fiber you're increasing also affects the symptoms you may experience. 'Soluble fiber — found in foods like oats, apples and beans — tends to be gentler at first but often causes more gas because it's fermented by gut bacteria,' Ednie said. 'Insoluble fiber — from whole grains, vegetable skins and nuts — adds bulk and moves things along but can lead to more bloating and cramping if increased too quickly without enough water.' Zenker also notes that for some people, especially older adults and young children, the satiating effect of fiber may reduce overall food intake, potentially leading to unintended weight loss or nutrient gaps. Additionally, consuming too much fiber can interfere with the absorption of important minerals like iron, zinc and calcium by binding to them in the gut and preventing their absorption. Increasing your fluid intake is key. Hydration is essential when increasing fiber intake to help it do its job effectively. 'Soluble fiber needs water to form the gel that helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol,' Ednie explained. 'Insoluble fiber needs water to add bulk and move stool efficiently through the digestive tract.' He recommends aiming for at least eight to 10 cups of water a day when boosting your fiber intake, and more if you're active or in a hot climate, and pairing every fiber-rich meal or snack with a full glass of water to support digestion. How to safely increase your fiber intake. Nutrition experts agree that it's important to increase fiber gradually to give your digestive system time to adjust and minimize the risk of bloating or discomfort. 'Instead of jumping from 10 grams a day to 30 overnight, add just 3 to 5 grams of fiber per week,' Ednie said. He also recommends spreading your fiber intake throughout the day, like enjoying oatmeal with berries in the morning, veggies or legumes at lunch and dinner, and snacks like fruit with nuts or popcorn in between. 'Consistency makes it much easier for the body to adapt and helps create sustainable habits that support long-term gut health,' he added. Ednie also emphasizes prioritizing whole foods as your main fiber source to support digestive, metabolic and cardiovascular health. These foods naturally contain a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber, along with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that fiber supplements don't offer. 'Supplements can be helpful for people who struggle to meet their fiber needs through diet alone, but they should be viewed as an addition, not a replacement,' he said. HuffPost.


Newsweek
4 hours ago
- Newsweek
Pregnant Woman Forced Into Heartbreaking Decision—Her Life or Five Babies
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. After finding out she was pregnant with five babies, one woman had to make a heartbreaking decision to save her own life and the lives of two of her unborn children. Chelsae Michelle Jenner and her husband already had three sons, but they wanted to try for one more as they could finally have a girl. They went through intrauterine insemination (IUI), and, just nine days later, she got the exciting news that she was pregnant. But, by the time her pregnancy reached five weeks and four days, the joy faded, only to be replaced with heartbreak. Jenner, who resides in Austin, Texas, discovered that there were five sacs and potentially a sixth. She told Newsweek that it was "a very dangerous situation." "My doctor immediately told me this wasn't good news," Jenner said. "Based on my weight and only being 5 feet tall, the risk of severe consequences carrying all five was very high." From left: Chelsae Jenner poses during her pregnancy; and with the twins. From left: Chelsae Jenner poses during her pregnancy; and with the twins. @chelsaejenner / TikTok Jenner said she and her husband were told they had a difficult decision to make. Their options were to either continue carrying all five babies and hope they survived, or to undergo a fetal reduction. The latter would hopefully save the lives of two babies and save Jenner's life, too. The gravity of this lifechanging decision left Jenner utterly broken, she said. Jenner continued: "From six weeks, we had to watch the babies weekly. We didn't know what we wanted to do, but we were encouraged to wait and see if nature would take its course and they passed naturally. "The pregnancy also caused me to have heart issues. I needed a heart monitor to watch my heart, because, at rest, it was 120 to 130 bpm. My heart was already working way too hard, pumping so much blood for five babies. I also had kidney issues and liver issues at just six weeks." By eight weeks, Jenner learned that the fifth baby no longer had a heartbeat, and one of the babies may have Turner Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that affects only females. All Jenner ever wanted was a baby girl. From left: The dad holds the surviving twins; and Chelsea cradles them. From left: The dad holds the surviving twins; and Chelsea cradles them. @chelsaejenner / TikTok The grief started to set in, but she was still mentally prepared to carry the remaining four babies. Her body was physically struggling, but she was willing to do whatever it took. During a 10-week consultation, the couple were given a sheet with statistics about what their life could be like if Jenner carried the four babies to term. "The consultant took into account my BMI and my health issues, and it put me at 60 percent mortality rate due to complications or hemorrhage," Jenner said. "She showed us the disabilities the babies were at risk of, with a 90 percent chance of one or more having them. "She asked about our financial situation and if we could afford children with disabilities. She asked about our other children; how would they do with their parents giving all their attention to four babies who may have special needs," she continued. Jenner had spent so long believing that it was selfish to let them go, but after realizing what the family's reality could look like, she came to see that sparing their lives was a selfless act. "No one understands until they read that paper, and their life changes in an instant. After we read that paper, my decision was clear," Jenner said. The decision to undergo fetal reduction was made at 10 weeks. This requires inserting a needle into the sac of the chosen baby and stopping their heart. Jenner had to wait until 12 weeks to ensure Baby A and Baby B were big enough, but she was assured that they wouldn't feel pain. She couldn't choose herself, so the doctor took that burden and showed them moving around on the ultrasound before stopping their hearts. Jenner was then monitored weekly to ensure the remaining twins were growing, and that her body was coping. The twins were born at 33 weeks and six days, but to Jenner, they will always be her quintuplets. From left: Chelsae Jenner poses with her twins in hospital, who are pictured together in 2025. From left: Chelsae Jenner poses with her twins in hospital, who are pictured together in 2025. @chelsaejenner / TikTok Jenner's grief is palpable, but she shared her journey on social media (@chelsaejenner on TikTok) to connect with others. Back then, she felt like no one understood what she was going through, so she hopes to provide support for any other women facing this. Many of her TikTok posts have gone viral, with one clip documenting her devastating pregnancy generating over 1.5 million views and more than 66,000 likes. Jenner said: "I felt tired of hiding my pain. They are a massive reason I'm still here and why the twins are thriving. The more I silenced their journey, the more I silenced them, and it made them not feel real. By sharing this, I hope our story can reach someone walking this same journey and to know they are not alone. "Every time I think of them, the exact moment we chose to save our babies will haunt me forever. But I have learned to accept those feelings and know that the decision was the best-possible outcome," Jenner added. Is there a health issue that's worrying you? Let us know via health@ We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.


Newsweek
5 hours ago
- Newsweek
Security Cam Shows Husband Kissing Wife—No One Knew It Was Goodbye
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A woman from West Virginia caught a goodnight kiss from her husband, not knowing it would be her last moment with him. Crystal Samson posted footage from their bedroom camera on her TikTok (@beware868), which showed her husband, Charlie, leaning in to kiss her, just before the couple went to sleep on the night of July 6, 2024. "It was a normal day for us," Crystal, a mom of two, told Newsweek. "He came home from work. We were talking about my uncle passing away that same day; and he looked at our oldest son and said, 'You never know; we are here today and gone tomorrow,' and we had no idea he would shortly have to leave us behind." Black and white still images from a home security camera showing a married couple in bed. Black and white still images from a home security camera showing a married couple in bed. @beware868 After reminiscing over photos from a recent family trip to Florida, the couple went to bed. Crystal remembers her husband falling asleep unusually early. As he wrapped his arms around her, he kissed her shoulder—something he had never done before in their 19 years together. "I was a different energy and a different kind of touch that I felt," Crystal said. "It's like he said goodbye in some way." Moments later, she felt his breathing change. Charlie started jerking—something Crystal said sometimes happened when he was falling asleep—but, this time, his body jolted hard, and he fell onto his back. "I flipped the light on and was screaming his name, asking him to answer me," Crystal said. "He was mumbling but couldn't speak. I called 911 [and] told them he has shallow breathing—he was slowly slipping away in front of me and our sons." Their two boys, ages 13 and 16 at the time, witnessed a distressing scene. Crystal and her older son moved Charlie to the floor and began CPR until emergency responders arrived. At the hospital, Crystal made it there first. Ten to 15 minutes after emergency medical services arrived, they told Crystal they had done everything they could. Crystal said: "I [asked] the doctor to tell all of us together as a family as this was hard for me to comprehend and even tell my boys there is no hope. We all said goodbye to him that night." Charlie had previously survived a "widowmaker" heart attack in February 2024, which left his heart functioning at only 15 percent. Still, he returned to work shortly after receiving stents—refusing to slow down. "He was a hardworking family man, loved us unconditionally and always provided," Crystal said. "Everyone was asking him to slow down, but his words [were], 'My family has to survive; I have to pay bills.' He was a provider and showed his love to us daily." The couple's relationship together hadn't been easy. Both Charlie and Crystal had struggled with addiction and served time in prison for drug-related charges in 2011. But, after their release, they rebuilt their lives, regained custody of their children, stayed sober, secured jobs and even purchased their home in 2022. "It's like he provided all he could and then got tired, but he made sure we were sheltered and provided for," Crystal said. Now navigating life without him, Crystal added that she leans on her faith, her kids and her healing journey. "[I'm] continuing to exercise, staying focused on my health and my mental health, crying when I need to, talking to others, posting videos in his memory, and, of course, a big part is our children," Crystal said. "I often listen to music that helps me deal with it and I talk to God."