From the Guidelines
No, MiraLAX (polyethylene glycol 3350) does not increase fiber in your diet. MiraLAX is an osmotic laxative that works by drawing water into the colon to soften stool and increase bowel movements, as opposed to fiber supplements which add bulk to stool and promote regular bowel movements 1. Unlike fiber supplements such as Metamucil or Citrucel, MiraLAX doesn't contain any fiber. It functions differently by retaining water in the intestinal tract, which helps make stools softer and easier to pass. If you're looking to increase your fiber intake, you would need to either consume more fiber-rich foods (like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes) or take a specific fiber supplement, such as psyllium, which has been shown to be effective in increasing stool weight 1.
Some key points to consider when increasing fiber intake include:
- The recommended daily fiber intake is about 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men
- Fiber works to prevent constipation by adding bulk to stool and promoting regular bowel movements
- Different formulations and types of fibers have been evaluated, including inulin, wheat bran, and psyllium, each with varying effects on stool weight and fermentation 1
- Increasing fluid intake is also important, especially for individuals with low levels of fluid intake, as it can help prevent constipation 1.
It's worth noting that while MiraLAX can help address constipation, it does not provide the same benefits as a high-fiber diet, which has been associated with reduced rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD) 1. Therefore, it is recommended to prioritize a balanced diet rich in fiber and to consider fiber supplements or other treatments only as needed.
From the Research
MiraLAX (Polyethylene Glycol) and Dietary Fiber
- MiraLAX, also known as polyethylene glycol (PEG), is an osmotic laxative used to treat constipation 2.
- There is no direct evidence that MiraLAX increases dietary fiber, as it is an inert, non-absorbable molecule that works by forming an isotonic solution to prevent water absorption and increase intestinal contents 3, 2.
- Studies suggest that a combination of psyllium (a type of fiber) and PEG could be an effective therapeutic option for patients with chronic constipation, as psyllium can help increase stool output and PEG can help soften stool 3, 4.
- Fiber supplementation, particularly with psyllium, has been shown to be effective in improving constipation symptoms, including stool frequency and consistency 4.
- However, the use of laxatives, including PEG, in combination with biofeedback therapy did not offer significant therapeutic benefits for patients with pelvic floor dyssynergia, a cause of chronic constipation 5.
Key Findings
- PEG is an effective treatment for functional constipation, with great safety and tolerability 2.
- Psyllium is a effective fiber supplement for improving constipation symptoms, particularly when used in doses greater than 10g/d and for treatment durations of at least 4 weeks 4.
- The combination of psyllium and PEG may be a useful therapeutic option for patients with chronic constipation 3.