My nutritionist has suggested I start taking fiber supplements and I've been hearing a lot about it in the news lately. What's the deal with fiber?—Jeanine, Chattsworth, CA

As a culture, we Americans are all fiber-deprived—hence colon cancer, IBS, high cholesterol and diabetes. Since a healthy person is a healthy GI tract, upping your fiber sounds like good idea to me. Apples with the skin are high in fiber; berries are a good source, too. As far as vegetables, the usual suspects apply: broccoli, spinach, green peas and other dark leafy greens will do the trick. Go for brown rice over white and whole grain breads (always go for whole grain breads—white ones are tantamount to cotton candy). You might want to supplement with some flaxseeds, either in seed or oil form. Psyllium seed husks will also boost your day's fiber count. You can add it to a smoothie or stir it into some water (not for the faint of palette).