What Are The Benefits Of Taking Fiber Supplements
Studies show that fiber supplements have metabolic benefits such as lowering cholesterol and improved glycemic control. They also can help normalize and maintain bowel movements, which is great for people with constipation. While fiber supplements are an effective way to increase your intake, remember that eating fiber-rich foods is always the best option.
Too Much Benefiber Too Long
The laxative effects of medicines like Benefiber should start an action within 1 to 4 hours of ingestion. The citrate component in Benefiber is the key ingredient that causes it.
Taking benefiber for too long at a stretch may disrupt the gastro-intstional tract. It can grow a resistance and not work for long.
On the other hand, taking too much Benefiber causes constipation and also be the root cause of intestinal obstruction.
You see, taking anything more than required is never good!
Best Fiber Supplements That Will Keep Your Gut Happy
Fiber is crucial for healthy digestion. But most people aren’t getting enough of it.
Taylor Leamey
Taylor Leamey writes about all things wellness. She holds a bachelor’s degree in both Psychology and Sociology and is a certified sleep coach.
Fiber is an essential carbohydrate that our bodies can’t break down. It passes through our system undigested, which helps our body regulate how it uses sugar and preserves digestion function. Unfortunately, most people don’t get enough of it. It’s estimated that only 5% of people consume the recommended amount of fiber daily. Women should try to eat at least 21 to 25 grams of fiber a day, while men should aim for 30 to 38 grams a day.
Fiber supplements help regulate digestion, prevent constipation and manage glucose and cholesterol levels. But before we jump into the picks for the best fiber supplements, there’s an important distinction that you need to know.
There are two types of fiber — soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and helps lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Insoluble fiber is the type that helps move food through your digestive system.
Recommended Reading: How To Not Look Bloated
Comparison Of Side Effects And Safety
Both supplements may cause gas and bloating, especially if a consumer is not used to fiber in the diet. The recommendation for both is to start slowly with only one dose daily.
Both supplements come with an allergy risk. Benefiber is made from wheat, so it may not be appropriate for gluten-sensitive consumers.
Taking these products without plenty of water can lead to choking and possible bowel obstruction.
Taking these supplements at the same time as other medications may interfere with medication absorption. Talk to the doctor or pharmacist about timing with medication.
Because of Metamucils more viscous texture, it may be a choking risk for people who have trouble swallowing.
Its best to talk to a doctor about your symptoms before beginning a supplement.
Chronic constipation may be a sign of a serious problem, and fiber supplements may worsen your condition.
Consuming Good Carbs Means More Daily Fiber
Unfortunately, most of us are consuming fewer than 20 grams of fiber per day. I know many people who shy away from the carbs in whole grains, beans, and fruit, thus missing out on all that healthy fiber. But heres the deal: theres good carbs and bad carbs, and whole grains, beans, and vegetables are all good, folks. Its the quality of the carb that counts. Worried about gassy effects? In the short term, start low and use simethicone as needed. Your body will become accustomed over time, and the effects will diminish.
Also Check: Can You Heal Leaky Gut Syndrome
Benefiber Original Powder And Benefiber Stick Packs
What is Benefiber Original Powder?
Benefiber Original Powder is a clear, taste-free plant-based prebiotic fiber made with wheat dextrin that nourishes the good bacteria inside your digestive system.* You can get all the same plant-based prebiotic benefits as Benefiber Original Powder on-the-go with single-serve Benefiber Stick Packs, which are available in both unflavored and Kiwi Strawberry flavored powder.
How is Benefiber Original different from other fiber supplements?
Unlike some other fiber supplements, Benefiber Original powder dissolves completely in most foods and beverages without changing the taste and texture. Benefiber Original contains plant-based prebiotic fiber.
Is Benefiber Original powder flavored?
Benefiber Original powder is a clear, taste-free, and completely dissolvable plant-based fiber supplement that can be added to most foods and beverages without changing taste and texture.
Whats The Difference Between Benefiber And Benefiber Healthy Shape
However, some people did say that there was no difference between the healthy shape and the regular benefiber. I checked out both and the only difference I see is that the regular benefiber is only 3g of fiber with recommendations of 3 times a day, while the healthy shape is 5g of fiber and use twice a day.
Also Check: Can Ice Cream Cause Constipation
Benefiber Advanced Digestive Health
What is Advanced Digestive Health?
Benefiber Advanced Digestive Health is a 100% natural, clear and taste-free prebiotic dietary fiber supplement made with partially hydrolyzed guar gum that helps maintain digestive health by nourishing the good bacteria in your gut. As a regulating fiber, Benefiber Advanced Digestive Health helps to relieve occasional constipation and abdominal discomfort, all without causing diarrhea.* Its also low FODMAP and gluten-free, and is a great way to keep your digestive health in balance.*
What is the active ingredient in Benefiber Advanced Digestive Health?
The active ingredient in Benefiber Advanced Digestive Health is PHGG, or partially hydrolyzed guar gum. PHGG is an all-natural, water-soluble prebiotic dietary fiber from the guar plant seed that helps to support digestive health with daily use.*
How does Benefiber Advanced Digestive Health support digestive health?
Benefiber Advanced Digestive Health helps maintain digestive health with daily use by helping users achieve the daily recommended amount of fiber. As a regulating fiber, it helps to relieve occasional constipation and abdominal discomfort without causing diarrhea.* Benefiber Advanced Digestive Health is also a prebiotic fiber, which helps maintain digestive health by nourishing the good bacteria in your gut.*
Side Effects Of Psyllium Fiber
Some people experience gas, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea or constipation when taking psyllium fiber supplements, according to MedlinePlus. The supplement also may cause headaches, coughing, runny nose, and sinus problems. To prevent side effects, start with a low dose and gradually increase it if necessary. Itâs also important when taking any fiber supplement, to increase your fluids, and drink plenty of water each day.
Dont Miss: Ldl Cholesterol Effects
Don’t Miss: Does Coconut Oil Help With Constipation
Does Fiber Help You Lose Belly Fat
Eating more soluble fiber can also help you lose belly fat and prevent belly fat gain. One study linked a 10-gram increase in daily soluble fiber intake to a 3.7% lower risk of gaining belly fat . Several other studies also show that people who eat more soluble fiber have a lower risk of belly fat .
Are Citrucel And Metamucil The Same
Citrucel and Metamucil are two of the very popular fiber supplements available. Both Citrucel and Metamucil are in the same class of drugs called bulk-forming laxatives. Just like the name implies, they both are consumed and because of their own actions they get into your intestines and attract water.
Read Also: Can You Take Probiotics With Food
Do All Fiber Supplements Lower Cholesterol Levels
Fiber is an important part of any healthy diet. Although fiber is mostly known for improving digestive health, studies have also shown that certain types of fiber can also help lower your cholesterol levels. This can include common brand name fiber supplements like Metamucil and Citrucel.
Also Check: Is There A Lot Of Cholesterol In Shrimp
How Much Is Too Much Saturated Fats
Most foods you choose should contain no more than 2 grams of saturated fat per serving. To help lower your LDL cholesterol, no more than 5 to 6 percent of your daily calorie intake should come from saturated fats. Use the list below to figure out the maximum amount of saturated fat you can have each day.
- Daily Calories:1,200
- Daily Saturated Fat Limit : 7-8g
Read Also: Are Baked Potatoes High In Cholesterol
You May Like: What Is Ibs Stand For
Can Fiber Improve Kidney Function
For most people with kidney disease, fiber doesnt come to mind when thinking of improving their kidney health. However, lots of research has been published showing how fiber, a natural substance in plants, can give the kidneys an extra boost and improve kidney function.
Two studies published in the Kidney International Journal showed that a high dietary fiber intake is associated with lower risk of inflammation and mortality in kidney disease. Dietary fiber also has the ability to reduce inflammation and all cause mortality in chronic kidney disease.
Another recent study published in the Journal of Renal Nutrition in May 2013 conclude that increasing fiber intake in CKD patients through the consumption of foods with added fiber can reduce serum creatinine levels and improve eGFR.
These two studies show that adequate fiber intake is crucial to helping your kidney disease. By reducing inflammation in the kidney, in turn the kidney can function better.
This is amazing news for anyone with kidney disease. By just adding fiber in your diet through the foods you eat, and any supplements can positively improve your kidney function.
What is Fiber
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body cant breakdown and digest, and passes through the body undigested. Fiber has many health benefits from regulating the bodys use of sugars and lowering cholesterol to keeping blood sugar in check and helping the kidneys to function better.
Fiber Rich Foods That Are Safe For Kidney Disease:
It Can Relieve Constipation For Many People
If youre constipated and have a low fiber intake, eating more of it could help.
Studies have shown that increasing the amount of fiber you eat could increase the number of stools that you pass .
In fact, a recent review showed that 77% of people with chronic constipation found some relief by increasing their fiber intake .
Moreover, two studies have found that increasing dietary fiber intake could be as effective as the laxative lactulose for relieving constipation in children (
Bottom Line:
Most people dont eat enough dietary fiber. Those who lack fiber in their diet may experience relief by increasing their intake.
You May Like: What To Do For Ibs Pain
Benefiber Prebiotic Fiber + Probiotics Gummies
What is Benefiber Prebiotic Fiber + Probiotics Gummies?
Its the first product from Benefiber to include both prebiotic fiber and probiotics. Benefiber Prebiotic Fiber + Probiotics Gummies help support digestive health by nourishing your existing good bacteria with prebiotic fiber, as well as adding probiotics to your gut.* Benefiber + Probiotics Gummies contain inulina plant-based prebiotic fiber that helps optimize gut health.* Benefiber + Probiotics Gummies come in a delightful assortment of fruit flavors.
How does Benefiber Prebiotic Fiber + Probiotics Gummies help optimize gut health?
Benefiber + Probiotics Gummies nourish your existing healthy gut bacteria with prebiotic fiber, while also adding more probioticshealthy bacteriato help your gut to promote a robust environment for good digestive health.*
What are the ingredients in Benefiber Prebiotic Fiber + Probiotics Gummies?
The main fiber ingredient in Benefiber + Probiotics Gummies is inulin. Its a prebiotic fiber thats found in various vegetables such as chicory, onions, soybeans, and wheat. Each gummy also contains additional ingredients such as citric acid, pectin, sodium nitrate, corn starch, and coconut oil. You can learn more about Benefiber + Probiotics Gummies on the product package.
How Long Does It Take Benefiber To Work
Ideally, a Benefiber should start working within three to five days after ingestion. However, for the initial symptoms, you may find more frequent requirements for using your loo.
If you are allergic to any of the components of benefiber, you may have slow or no results.
It is always advisable to consult a doctor before you start any kind of medicine.
Don’t Miss: Why Does Your Period Make You Bloated
How To Use Benefiber
You can include Benefiber chewables and Benefiber powder in various ways.
You can mix the Benefiber powder with your favorite drink such as coffee, tea, water, juice, soup, or blend it in your batter for baking.
Additionally, you can add Benefiber powder to your cereals, smoothies, or protein shakes to increase your fiber intake.
Remember to monitor the number of calories you take in, especially if you are on a weight loss diet. Read through the ingredients to ensure you do not consume excess calories.
You can cook Benefiber contents together with your foods without necessarily changing its consistency. Cooking does not alter the benefits of Benefiber, and you will not feel a difference in the taste.
Do not, however, use Benefiber packets with carbonated drinks.
How To Take Fiber Supplements
Its always ideal to get your recommended intake of daily fiber through diet. This can be done rather easily by focusing on adding foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans and dried peas to your plate.
A fiber supplement may be warranted, though, to fill nutritional gaps.
The majority of Americans are deficient in fiber many eat half or less than the recommended daily amounts, says Dr. Jampolis. So while I always take a food first approachas the fiber in food comes with a host of other benefits, especially disease-fighting phytonutrients, vitamins and mineralsI do often recommend fiber supplements, especially for weight loss, cholesterol reduction and blood sugar control, in addition to regularity.
When opting for a fiber supplement, be sure to check with your doctor, as fiber supplements can sometimes interfere with how other medications are absorbed by the body. As a result, you should aim to take your fiber supplement one hour before taking your medication or two to four hours after. Its also important to stay hydrated when taking fiber to avoid constipationtake your supplement with at least 8 ounces of water, and drink six to eight glasses of water a day.
Interested In Trying The Nutrisystem Diet?
Choose your weight loss plan. New menu 2022 available. Breakfast burritos, sesame ramen, hash brown casserole and more!
You May Like: Can Ibs Cause Chest Pain
Benefiber Vs Metamucil For Constipation
Wheat dextrin, used by Benefiber, and psyllium husk, used by Metamucil, may both be soluble fiber but their differences are worlds apart. Wheat dextrin and psyllium husk have contrasting properties that produce different effects concerning constipation, diarrhea, weight management, IBS symptoms, and cholesterol levels.
A study conducted in 2015 produced results showing that psyllium taken as a fiber supplement has proven results of relieving symptoms of constipation and diarrhea, and helps normalize bowel movements for IBS sufferers.
Psyllium fiber is described as a soluble fiber with a high water-holding capacity, is also gel-forming and contains a high level of viscosity. All of these elemental properties allow for psyllium to act both as a stool softener and a laxative, both attributes that can immensely relieve constipation.
Alternatively, wheat dextrin does not have the same laxative properties and at specific doses, can even have constipating effects. This is because wheat dextrin fails to hold water and is not as viscous as psyllium soluble fiber.
Because of these results, Metamucil and its use of psyllium as apart of its supplement formula are more effective for the condition of constipation.
Dont Miss: How Long To Fast Before Cholesterol Panel
Difference Between Metamucil And Benefiber
Categorized under Health,Science | Difference Between Metamucil and Benefiber
Constipation is a common problem as people age and often results from lack of fiber in the diet. Constipation is a problem that everyone has once in awhile but it isnt usually serious and typically does not last for a long time. It occurs when bowel movements get irregular and stool becomes difficult to pass through the colon. So, if you experience something like fewer poops in a week, may be less than three times or so, you may have constipation. So, doctors often suggest you eat more high-fiber foods and drink more water to get rid of constipation naturally. There are five main symptoms of constipation, namely straining, hardness of stool, infrequency, insufficiency and difficulty. Now, if home remedies do not work for you, there are a number of medications available over the counter to treat constipation. Metamucil and Benefiber are the two popular over the counter soluble fiber supplements that are designed to relieve constipation.
Recommended Reading: Can Kidney Stones Cause Gas And Constipation
Is Benefiber Or Metamucil More Effective
A clinical review published in 2015 sought to evaluate the health outcomes of regular fiber therapy by comparing commercially available fiber products. Researchers describe that a key difference between dextrin and psyllium is that dextrin is readily fermented in the intestinal tract. Once fermented, dextrin loses its water-holding capability and therefore is not an effective laxative. Psyllium is not fermented, and thus becomes a viscous, gel-like consistency and can hold water in the stool throughout the large bowel. This provides a hydrated, bulky stool that can be excreted more easily. Furthermore, the American College of Gastroenterology Chronic Constipation Task Force that psyllium was the only fiber supplement that showed enough clinical evidence to support an indication for chronic constipation.
The American Diabetes Association published a meta-analysis in 2019 evaluating fiber supplements effects on glycemic control. Their findings suggested that viscous fibers, like psyllium, showed the greatest effect on glycemic control. Psylliums viscous gel formation slows digestion, likely slowing sugar absorption. This effect of slowing digestion also leaves you feeling fuller for a longer period of time, seeming to aid in weight loss.
Your healthcare provider will provide recommendations on which type of fiber is best for your gut health.