When Should You Take Fiber Supplements?

Fiber supplements might be an option if you are unable to obtain enough fiber from your diet. You can treat constipation and diarrhea by using fiber supplements. Before beginning any supplement, consult your doctor. Check fiber package labels thoroughly.

• A few fiber supplements to consider are Benefiber® (wheat dextrin), Metamucil® (psyllium), Konsyl® (psyllium), Citrucel® (methylcellulose), Fiberco® (Smart Fiber generated from cellulose), and Fiber Choice® (inulin). Soluble fibers include guar gum and psyllium husk.
• A well-known fiber supplement called Metamucil includes psyllium husk among other components. Psyllium husk has been used as a natural cure for a very long time. It originates from the Plantago ovata plant, which is widely distributed throughout India. The plants are cut down, and the seed husks are powdered and utilized in dietary supplements. The instructions to use this fiber supplement are available online and vary depending on the product you choose.
• If you are taking Metamucil for appetite control, start with one serving or two teaspoons, up to three times a day. Combine it with eight ounces of water or another cold liquid.
• Taking Metamucil with breakfast, lunch, and dinner is the optimal time to do so if you want to feel less hungry in between meals. You will feel more satiated if you drink it while eating.
• Take the supplement as often as you would like throughout the day if you are using it only for general health. To avoid ingesting too much at once, attempt to space out your doses. If Metamucil does not make you feel sick, you can even take it before going to bed.

Numerous studies have reported that increasing total fiber intake, from both food and supplements, lowers the risk of heart disease. Additionally, high-fiber diets have been related to a decreased incidence of type II diabetes.

A 2015 study in the Journal of Diabetes Investigation reported that consuming more fiber-rich fruits and vegetables was associated with a lower risk of developing diabetes. The health benefits of berries, leafy green vegetables, yellow vegetables, and cruciferous veggies were especially noteworthy.

• Stools get more voluminous when they include insoluble fiber. It benefits those with some forms of irritable bowel syndrome and alleviates diverticular disease and constipation.
• According to recent studies, increased fiber consumption is associated with improved survival in people with colon cancer.
• Cholesterol levels appear to be reduced by soluble fiber. In the intestines, it binds with cholesterol and keeps it from being absorbed.
• Additionally, soluble fiber may help in the management of insulin resistance and diabetes. It may reduce the pace at which carbs are absorbed, enhancing blood sugar levels.
• High-fiber foods may help lose weight because they are calorie-light and satisfying.

Because this nutrient is so crucial, you should consume it whenever you can rather than scheduling a specific time to do so. It is preferable to consume plant-based foods instead of fiber supplements or powder.

In addition to fiber, dietary supplements may include other unhealthful components. However, some brands are superior to others.

You should not take fiber supplements without first consulting your doctor if you are presently taking any of the following drugs:

• Antidepressant medications
• Carbamazepine
• Cholesterol-lowering medications
• Diabetes medications
• Lithium
• Digoxin