Maxxing Out: What Fibremaxxing, Sleepmaxxing and Flavormaxxing Get Right — and What to Know First
From gut health to good sleep to meals that actually taste great, a new wave of wellness trends is encouraging us to “maxx” the things that matter. But with every new term comes a familiar question: is this actually helpful - or just another scroll trap?
Here’s a breakdown of what the evidence says, what’s worth trying, and how to make it work in real life.
Fibremaxxing
What it is: A growing trend focused on increasing your daily fibre intake, through foods like beans, seeds, grains and vegetables, in a bid to improve gut health and reduce disease risk.
Does it work? Yes. A wide body of research supports the benefits of fibre. Increasing your daily intake by around 7g per day (roughly half a tin of beans) is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer - by up to 9%.
What to watch: The key is to increase fibre slowly and drink plenty of water - sudden changes can cause bloating or discomfort.
Verdict: One of the most evidence-backed and accessible health upgrades you can make. Small changes go a long way.
Sleepmaxxing
What it is: An approach that prioritises better, more consistent sleep, often with the help of routines, tools and tracking.
Does it work? Good sleep is one of the most important foundations of overall health. Research shows that consistent, high-quality sleep supports everything from mood and immunity to blood sugar regulation.²
What to watch: It’s easy to overcomplicate things. You don’t need to “optimise” every minute - just aim for 7–9 hours, a regular bedtime, a dark room, and reduced screen time before bed.
Verdict: Simple routines can make a big difference (no gadgets required).
Flavormaxxing
What it is: A trend encouraging people to add bold, satisfying flavours - herbs, spices, fermented foods, umami - to make healthy meals more enjoyable and sustainable.
Does it work? There’s strong behavioural research to suggest that people are more likely to stick to healthy eating when meals taste good and feel satisfying. Adding flavour through real, whole ingredients can also increase nutrient diversity.
What to watch: Some “flavour hacks” rely on ultra-processed sauces or high levels of sodium - check labels, and favour whole-food flavour sources when possible.
Verdict: If it helps you eat more plants and enjoy meals more, it’s a habit worth keeping.
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