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A new study has revealed a significant gap in the nation's diet, with one in five Brits admitting they are not consuming enough daily fibre, and a quarter of adults unaware of where to find this essential nutrient. The research, based on a poll of 2,000 adults, found that nearly half (49%) don't know the recommended daily fibre intake is 30g.

The lack of knowledge extends to everyday foods, with 16% of those polled unaware that fibre can be found in sweet potatoes. Furthermore, three in 10 don't realise raspberries are a source of the carbohydrate, and 47% were unaware it's even present in dark chocolate.

Even avocados, known for their 'healthy fats', were not recognised as a fibre provider by over a fifth (21%) of respondents.The health consequences of this fibre deficit are often misunderstood.

The poll found that a staggering 66% of people didn't realise symptoms such as mood swings and fatigue after meals could be linked to insufficient fibre intake. Other signs of a lack of fibre include low energy, brain fog, and constant hunger.

Nutritionist and fibre expert Kristen Stavridis, who has teamed up with Strong Roots Sweet Potato Fries, said: "Fibre plays a crucial role in digestion, energy levels and blood sugar balance, yet it's one of the most commonly overlooked nutrients.

"Many people don't realise that everyday foods, including vegetables, can make a meaningful contribution to their daily fibre intake when eaten regularly.

"Sweet potatoes are a natural source of fibre and also provide key nutrients such as vitamin A and potassium. However, the research suggests many people still fail to recognise them as part of a fibre-rich diet."

Beyond fibre, the poll highlighted wider dietary issues, revealing only 11% of the nation eats the recommended five-a-day from fruit and vegetables, and 53% feel overwhelmed by the fast pace of changing health trends.

Despite this, 42% believe people are paying more attention to nutrition than they did a decade ago, according to OnePoll.com figures.

Kevin Friel, spokesperson for Strong Roots Sweet Potato Fries, said: "So many people are at a loss when it comes to fibre. It's a vitally important part of a healthy, balanced diet, and something nearly everyone could benefit from eating more of."

He suggests an easy dietary change: "Making small meal swaps can really help boost fibre intake, you really can eat your chips for more fibre. Swapping regular white potato chips for sweet potato fries is one simple change, they contain 4.1g of fibre per 100g and just one portion contributes towards the recommended daily intake."

The research also identified the top 10 health symptoms that could be indicators of a lack of fibre: