Updated July 23, 2026, 9:20 a.m. ET
There’s been a lot of buzz around “proteinmaxxing” and “fibermaxxing,” popular trends aimed at boosting nutrient intake for health benefits. But do we really need to jump on board? Is it even beneficial?
Brands have certainly embraced the protein trend, churning out everything from protein-rich chips to drinks aimed at health enthusiasts. Now, the spotlight is shifting to fiber-filled snacks, leading to some odd trends, like adding chia seeds into sodas and sweets.
One TikTok user shared a video of adding chia seeds to ice cream, which caught 3.7 million views. Some users expressed concerns, saying, “Guys, please, that’s enough,” while others were supportive, saying things like, “You’re changing my life.”
Similarly, a clip featuring chia seeds in soda racked up 7.7 million views, with reactions all over the board. “Honestly, I’m intrigued,” one commenter mentioned, while another quipped, “I could never do that to my soda, you’re braver than me.”
Nutrition expert Tara Schmidt noted, “Adding chia seeds doesn’t instantly transform a treat into a health food, but it does introduce more fiber, which can help you feel fuller.” According to Schmidt, if incorporating chia leads to more consistent fiber intake, that’s a step in the right direction. She suggests viewing chia seeds as a nutritional boost rather than a total overhaul.
Protein in water? It’s not just for shakes anymore.
You don’t need to rely solely on smoothies or whey protein to get your fix. The new trend is “clear protein” products and protein water.
Schmidt mentioned that while protein waters can be helpful for athletes or those needing extra protein, most people are already meeting their protein requirements through regular food. “Generally, Americans consume enough, often more than enough, protein,” she explained. Instead, focusing on diverse food sources for nutrition would be better.
Why the current obsession with ‘maxxing’ diets?
Higher fiber intake is linked to a reduced risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes, but many Americans simply don’t get enough of it. The recommended daily fiber intake for adults is about 22 to 34 grams, varying based on age and gender, according to Cleveland Clinic. Unfortunately, those following Western diets often fall short.
Unlike fiber, protein intake is frequently above recommendations in the U.S., with records indicating skyrocketing consumption. But that hasn’t quelled the “maxxing” phenomenon. So, what’s driving this trend?
Schmidt suggests we’re living in a time focused on improving performance, looks, and longevity. Social media and tech advancements have us asking, “What’s the next trend in nutrients?”
However, Schmidt cautions against fixating on just a few nutrition elements. “While interest in food is great, having more of one thing isn’t always better,” she shared. While increasing fiber or protein can be positive, it shouldn’t come at the expense of overall dietary balance.
Fiber can also be found in various other foods like oats, beans, lentils, nuts, and fruits. Experts recommend having a well-rounded diet to capture different types of fiber.
“Adding various nutritious foods is largely a good move, but it becomes problematic if one ingredient is expected to fix a deficient diet,” she clarified. Nutrition isn’t about finding a single perfect food; it’s about consistently nurtured eating habits over time.
