From the Guidelines
Yes, Metamucil (psyllium) does increase dietary fiber intake, as evidenced by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Points
- Metamucil is a fiber supplement that contains psyllium husk, a soluble fiber that adds bulk to your stool and helps regulate bowel movements.
- The typical adult dose is 1 tablespoon (about 7 grams of fiber) mixed in 8 ounces of water, taken 1-3 times daily, as suggested by the american gastroenterological association-american college of gastroenterology clinical practice guideline 1.
- It is essential to take Metamucil with at least 8 ounces of water to prevent choking or intestinal blockage, and start with a lower dose and gradually increase to allow your digestive system to adjust.
- Metamucil works by absorbing water in your intestines, forming a gel-like substance that helps soften stool and makes it easier to pass, which can help relieve constipation, manage diarrhea, and may provide other health benefits like helping to lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar 1.
- Most adults need 25-30 grams of fiber daily but typically consume only about half that amount, making supplements like Metamucil useful for bridging this nutritional gap.
Benefits of Metamucil
- Increases dietary fiber intake, which can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.
- Can help manage diarrhea by adding bulk to the stool.
- May provide other health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol levels and regulating blood sugar.
- Can be used as a first-line therapy for chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC), particularly for individuals with low dietary fiber intake, as recommended by the american gastroenterological association-american college of gastroenterology clinical practice guideline 1.
Important Considerations
- Adequate hydration is essential when taking Metamucil to prevent choking or intestinal blockage.
- Flatulence is a commonly observed side effect with the use of fiber supplements, including Metamucil 1.
- Dietary assessment is important to determine total fiber intake from diet and supplements, and to ensure that the recommended daily intake of fiber is met.
From the FDA Drug Label
As your body adjusts to increased fiber intake, you may experience changes in bowel habits or minor bloating. New Users:Start with 1 dose per day; gradually increase to 3 doses per day as necessary. 4-in-1 FIBER HELPS SUPPORT: The answer is yes, Metamucil (psyllium) increases dietary fiber, as indicated by the instructions to gradually increase the dose as the body adjusts to increased fiber intake 2. The product is also labeled as a FIBER SUPPLEMENT 2.
- Key points:
- The product contains psyllium, a type of fiber
- It is intended to support digestive health and regularity
- The label warns of potential changes in bowel habits as the body adjusts to increased fiber intake 2
From the Research
Metamucil and Dietary Fiber
- Metamucil is a fiber supplementation formed by 100% natural psyllium, which can increase dietary fiber intake 3.
- Psyllium, the main component of Metamucil, has been shown to have various health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, improving serum lipid levels, and reducing indicators of inflammation 4.
Health Benefits of Psyllium
- Psyllium has been found to lower serum and liver cholesterol concentrations, increase HDL-cholesterol levels, and moderate postprandial glucose and insulin concentrations in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients 4.
- Psyllium supplementation has also been shown to improve glucose levels and insulin response, blood pressure, and lipid profile in both animals and humans, thereby reducing metabolic risk factors 5.
- Additionally, psyllium has been found to decrease appetite and improve symptoms of chronic constipation in adults 6, 5.
Effects of Psyllium on Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors
- Psyllium supplementation has been shown to provide benefits to many components of the metabolic syndrome, including improving glucose levels and insulin response, blood pressure, and lipid profile 5.
- Daily consumption of psyllium has also been found to improve blood lipid profiles, particularly total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, as well as glycemic response, and increase satiety 7.