FiberSupplements

SHOULD YOU TAKE A FIBER SUPPLEMENT?

The best way to get fiber in your diet is from foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts. Many people have a hard time getting the recommended 25-38 grams of Adults fiber daily and may consider taking a fiber supplement. Fiber supplements are generally a safe and easy way to boost the fiber in your diet. Some of the reasons people take fiber supplements are to improve digestive health, to ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), to help lower blood cholesterol, to help control blood sugar levels related to diabetes, and to help with weight management. There is no guarantee if and how they will work for each individual.

EXAMPLES OF FIBER SUPPLEMENTS:

Supplement
Psyllium husk

What is it?
The outside of the seed from the Plantago plant; rich in soluble fiber

Why do people take it?

Cholesterol Constipation IBS Diverticulosis Constipation Diarrhea IBS Diverticulosis Constipation Diarrhea IBS Diverticulosis

Brand names
Metamucil, Fiberall, Hydrocil, Konsyl, Perdiem, Reguloid, Natural Fiber Therapy, and Serutan Citrucel

Methylcellulose

A synthetic fiber derived from the cell wall of plants; non-allergenic and non-fermentable, so it is less likely to cause gas A synthetic agent made from polyacrylic acid; can be risky for people who have trouble swallowing, and may not be recommended for pregnant women A soluble fiber made from wheat starch

Calcium Polycarbophil

Fibercon, Fiber-Lax, Equalactin, and Mitrolan

Wheat dextrin

Cholesterol Constipation Digestive health Cholesterol and Triglycerides Constipation Digestive health Weight Loss Cholesterol Diarrhea IBS Blood sugar Weight loss

Benefiber

Inulin

An insoluble fiber made from the starchy part of the chicory root; no extra drinking water is required

Fiber Choice

Vegetable gums

Guar gum and acacia gum are soluble fibers from plant materials; relatively new as fiber supplements

Benefiber and Heathers Tummy fiber

WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW ABOUT TAKING FIBER SUPPLEMENTS?

9 Talk to your healthcare professional before taking a fiber supplement if you have intestinal problems. 9 Ask your healthcare professional or pharmacist if a fiber supplement will interact with medications or supplements you are taking. 9 If you have diabetes, be aware that fiber supplements may decrease your blood sugar levels. 9 Start with a small amount and work up to the recommended dosage slowly, since some fiber Soluble supplements can cause bloating and gas. Fiber 9 Drink plenty of water when you take a fiber supplement because they absorb fluids and this can lead to constipation or obstruction if extra fluids are not taken with them.