Can Beta-Sitosterol Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease? Many people use dietary supplements to relieve constipation and other digestive issues. Metamucil is a supplement thats often used to treat constipation and support regularity. Psyllium is much like other sources of soluble fiber found in foods such as: As do the above foods, psyllium attracts water as it goes through the digestive system and turns into a gel-like substance that helps digestion. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. There's no evidence that daily use of fiber supplements such as psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl, others) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) is harmful. 2017 Sep; 40(3): 607613. 
It can also be found in supplement form. Metamucil is also available in capsule and wafer form.
Psyllium fiber improves glycemic control proportional tolossof glycemic control: a meta-analysis of data in euglycemic subjects, patients at risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and patients being treated for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Both Benefiber and Metamucil have specific instructions regarding dosage. Black psyllium. Both Benefiber and Metamucil are soluble fiber supplements used to treat occasional constipation that may have other helpful benefits in the body. The effect of a fibre supplement compared to a healthy diet on body composition, lipids, glucose, insulin and other metabolic syndrome risk factors in overweight and obese individuals. 2009. doi:10.1111/j.0954-6820.1982.tb08527.x. In fact, it grows wild in the southwest United States. This article discusses the potential benefits of psyllium, how to take it, and how to potentially get the same benefits from food in your diet. 2016;15(1):86. doi:10.1186/s12937-016-0207-4. Generally, all medications and supplements should be stored out of reach of children. Anyone with stomach or digestive disorders should talk to their doctor before taking either of these supplements. National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. Can vitamins help prevent a heart attack? In this article, we look at the similarities and differences between Benefiber and Metamucil for constipation and other medical conditions, and alternative products, such as Miralax and Citrucel. 1982. doi:10.1111/j.0954-6820.1982.tb08527.x, Rossander L. Effect of dietary fiber on iron absorption in man.
Metamucil is a soluble fiber supplement made from psyllium. Some people are advised to not take psyllium, such as those with digestive conditions, kidney disease, or trouble swallowing. Studies suggest that taking Metamucil may help reduce hunger, enhance feelings of fullness, and increase weight loss. Heres our process.
Metamucil is often used to support digestive health, lower cholesterol levels, reduce appetite, and improve blood sugar control. Natural Medicines.
We avoid using tertiary references. It's also a good idea to ask your doctor or pharmacist whether fiber supplements interact with any medications you take. Bulk-forming laxatives such as Metamucil and FiberCon may help you find relief from constipation. Its a type of soluble fiber, which means that it absorbs water and forms a gel-like consistency as it passes through your digestive tract (2). "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. El-Salhy M, Ystad SO, Mazzawi T, Gundersen D. Dietary fiber in irritable bowel syndrome (Review).
Eating certain foods can increase the frequency of bowel movements and relieve constipation. Not drinking enough water may worsen constipation or cramping fiber is meant to relieve. Cathy Wong is a nutritionist and wellness expert. This allows your body to absorb more nutrients from your food as it passes through the stomach and intestines.
If this happens, reduce the dosage or drink extra water while taking the supplement. other information we have about you. Fiber supplements can decrease the absorption of certain medications, such as aspirin, carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Epitol, others) and others. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not evaluate supplements for safety and effectiveness.
However, it can also interfere with certain medications and may cause digestive issues for some people, including bloating, belching, and gas. Am J Gastroenterol. A Critical Look. If we combine this information with your protected There is a problem with If you have intestinal problems, such as a history of a bowel blockage or Crohn's disease, talk to your doctor before adding a fiber supplement to your diet. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, Children, unless it's recommended by their healthcare provider, People with bowel spasms or a history of bowel obstruction, People with a history of colon or rectal cancer, Lanoxin (digoxin) (Take one hour before or four hours after psyllium. In another study, adding 10 grams of psyllium daily helped improve blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The recommended dosages differ depending on a persons age: People should also ask their doctor before taking fiber supplements during pregnancy. Children shouldn't take psyllium without a healthcare provider's guidance. This article reviews whether Metamucil can help you lose weight, as well as whether you should use it for that purpose. Miralax is not a fiber-based supplement. 
In particular, it may cause mild digestive issues for some people, including gas, bloating, or belching (6, 7). Benefiber and Metamucil are fiber supplements. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Vitamins for MS: Do supplements make a difference? Studies also show that psyllium may help reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, which may be especially beneficial for weight loss. Rao S, Brenner D. Efficacy and safety of over-the-counter therapies for chronic constipation: An updated systematic review.
People who do not get much fiber in their diet should introduce these supplements slowly to avoid side effects. The active ingredient is polyethylene glycol, which pulls water into the stool to help relieve constipation. A case of blunted orally disintegrating olanzapine effect due to coadministered psyllium. 2008;77(1):73-78. Learn the difference between types of fiber and how to identify quality supplements. Psyllium is a source of soluble fiber. Last medically reviewed on January 15, 2021, One type of fiber, soluble fiber, has been linked to belly fat loss. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education. 2016;105:27-36. doi:10.1016/j.appet.2016.04.041. Randomised clinical trial: dried plums (prunes) vs. psyllium for constipation.
International Food Information Council: Food Insight. Soluble and insoluble fiber. People can also increase their daily fiber intake by including more fiber-rich foods into their diets. 
include protected health information. It may affect the absorption of: Tell your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all the medications you take, both prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and supplements, before starting a new supplement. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. 2018;108(5):922-932. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy115, Schoeneck M, Iggman D. The effects of foods on LDL cholesterol levels: A systematic review of the accumulated evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials. We include products we think are useful for our readers. 
A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition tested the effects of Metamucil on 72 people who were overweight or obese. If you're taking statin drugs to manage your cholesterol, adding psyllium fiber to your diet may help improve its cholesterol-lowering effects. 
You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on Only take the recommended dosage of psyllium, and be sure you drink at least the water or liquid required for that dosage. 7 of the Best Fiber Supplements, According to a Dietitian, Does Fiber Relieve or Cause Constipation? Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. doi:10.4088/JCP.20cr13633. 2005-2022 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Benefiber and Metamucil are two popular options, but which is best?
Third-party testing doesn't necessarily mean the product is safe or effective, just that the contents match the label and aren't contaminated. Being physically active also helps reduce the risk of constipation when taking psyllium. doi:10.3892/ijmm.2017.3072. Both Benefiber and Metamucil can have the following benefits: Keeping the bowels moving regularly can improve gut health and relieve the symptoms of digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and diverticulosis. Anyone experiencing constipation for more than 7 days should stop taking dietary fiber supplements, such as Benefiber or Metamucil, and see their doctor.
It can also be found in supplement form. Metamucil is also available in capsule and wafer form. Psyllium fiber improves glycemic control proportional tolossof glycemic control: a meta-analysis of data in euglycemic subjects, patients at risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and patients being treated for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Both Benefiber and Metamucil have specific instructions regarding dosage. Black psyllium. Both Benefiber and Metamucil are soluble fiber supplements used to treat occasional constipation that may have other helpful benefits in the body. The effect of a fibre supplement compared to a healthy diet on body composition, lipids, glucose, insulin and other metabolic syndrome risk factors in overweight and obese individuals. 2009. doi:10.1111/j.0954-6820.1982.tb08527.x. In fact, it grows wild in the southwest United States. This article discusses the potential benefits of psyllium, how to take it, and how to potentially get the same benefits from food in your diet. 2016;15(1):86. doi:10.1186/s12937-016-0207-4. Generally, all medications and supplements should be stored out of reach of children. Anyone with stomach or digestive disorders should talk to their doctor before taking either of these supplements. National Institutes of Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. Can vitamins help prevent a heart attack? In this article, we look at the similarities and differences between Benefiber and Metamucil for constipation and other medical conditions, and alternative products, such as Miralax and Citrucel. 1982. doi:10.1111/j.0954-6820.1982.tb08527.x, Rossander L. Effect of dietary fiber on iron absorption in man.
Metamucil is a soluble fiber supplement made from psyllium. Some people are advised to not take psyllium, such as those with digestive conditions, kidney disease, or trouble swallowing. Studies suggest that taking Metamucil may help reduce hunger, enhance feelings of fullness, and increase weight loss. Heres our process. Metamucil is often used to support digestive health, lower cholesterol levels, reduce appetite, and improve blood sugar control. Natural Medicines.
We avoid using tertiary references. It's also a good idea to ask your doctor or pharmacist whether fiber supplements interact with any medications you take. Bulk-forming laxatives such as Metamucil and FiberCon may help you find relief from constipation. Its a type of soluble fiber, which means that it absorbs water and forms a gel-like consistency as it passes through your digestive tract (2). "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. El-Salhy M, Ystad SO, Mazzawi T, Gundersen D. Dietary fiber in irritable bowel syndrome (Review). Eating certain foods can increase the frequency of bowel movements and relieve constipation. Not drinking enough water may worsen constipation or cramping fiber is meant to relieve. Cathy Wong is a nutritionist and wellness expert. This allows your body to absorb more nutrients from your food as it passes through the stomach and intestines. If this happens, reduce the dosage or drink extra water while taking the supplement. other information we have about you. Fiber supplements can decrease the absorption of certain medications, such as aspirin, carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Epitol, others) and others. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not evaluate supplements for safety and effectiveness.
However, it can also interfere with certain medications and may cause digestive issues for some people, including bloating, belching, and gas. Am J Gastroenterol. A Critical Look. If we combine this information with your protected There is a problem with If you have intestinal problems, such as a history of a bowel blockage or Crohn's disease, talk to your doctor before adding a fiber supplement to your diet. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, Children, unless it's recommended by their healthcare provider, People with bowel spasms or a history of bowel obstruction, People with a history of colon or rectal cancer, Lanoxin (digoxin) (Take one hour before or four hours after psyllium. In another study, adding 10 grams of psyllium daily helped improve blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The recommended dosages differ depending on a persons age: People should also ask their doctor before taking fiber supplements during pregnancy. Children shouldn't take psyllium without a healthcare provider's guidance. This article reviews whether Metamucil can help you lose weight, as well as whether you should use it for that purpose. Miralax is not a fiber-based supplement. In particular, it may cause mild digestive issues for some people, including gas, bloating, or belching (6, 7). Benefiber and Metamucil are fiber supplements. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Vitamins for MS: Do supplements make a difference? Studies also show that psyllium may help reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, which may be especially beneficial for weight loss. Rao S, Brenner D. Efficacy and safety of over-the-counter therapies for chronic constipation: An updated systematic review. People who do not get much fiber in their diet should introduce these supplements slowly to avoid side effects. The active ingredient is polyethylene glycol, which pulls water into the stool to help relieve constipation. A case of blunted orally disintegrating olanzapine effect due to coadministered psyllium. 2008;77(1):73-78. Learn the difference between types of fiber and how to identify quality supplements. Psyllium is a source of soluble fiber. Last medically reviewed on January 15, 2021, One type of fiber, soluble fiber, has been linked to belly fat loss. Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education. 2016;105:27-36. doi:10.1016/j.appet.2016.04.041. Randomised clinical trial: dried plums (prunes) vs. psyllium for constipation.
International Food Information Council: Food Insight. Soluble and insoluble fiber. People can also increase their daily fiber intake by including more fiber-rich foods into their diets. include protected health information. It may affect the absorption of: Tell your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all the medications you take, both prescription and over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and supplements, before starting a new supplement. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. 2018;108(5):922-932. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy115, Schoeneck M, Iggman D. The effects of foods on LDL cholesterol levels: A systematic review of the accumulated evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials. We include products we think are useful for our readers. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition tested the effects of Metamucil on 72 people who were overweight or obese. If you're taking statin drugs to manage your cholesterol, adding psyllium fiber to your diet may help improve its cholesterol-lowering effects. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on Only take the recommended dosage of psyllium, and be sure you drink at least the water or liquid required for that dosage. 7 of the Best Fiber Supplements, According to a Dietitian, Does Fiber Relieve or Cause Constipation? Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. doi:10.4088/JCP.20cr13633. 2005-2022 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Benefiber and Metamucil are two popular options, but which is best? Third-party testing doesn't necessarily mean the product is safe or effective, just that the contents match the label and aren't contaminated. Being physically active also helps reduce the risk of constipation when taking psyllium. doi:10.3892/ijmm.2017.3072. Both Benefiber and Metamucil can have the following benefits: Keeping the bowels moving regularly can improve gut health and relieve the symptoms of digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and diverticulosis. Anyone experiencing constipation for more than 7 days should stop taking dietary fiber supplements, such as Benefiber or Metamucil, and see their doctor.