No, Metamucil does not make you gain weight; in fact, its main ingredient, psyllium fiber, can help with weight management by making you feel full longer, reducing appetite and calorie intake, and slowing sugar absorption, potentially leading to modest weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise, but it's not a magic weight loss solution. It works by forming a gel that expands in your stomach, signaling fullness to your brain, but you should always drink plenty of water with it and consult a doctor.
The psyllium fiber in Metamucil works by forming a gel inside your digestive system that traps and removes the waste that weighs you down. * If you are experiencing less-than-ideal bowel movements, the fiber in Metamucil treats occasional constipation. It supports your digestive system* and is safe to take daily.
Metamucil's cons include common side effects like gas, bloating, cramps, and nausea, especially when starting. More serious concerns involve potential intestinal blockage or choking if not taken with enough liquid, potential interference with medication absorption, and risks for people with certain conditions or allergies. It can also contain added sugars, sweeteners, or sodium, depending on the product.
Metamucil powders and capsules can both help maintain healthy blood sugar levels* when taken as directed. Check with your health care professional if you are currently using any medications to control your blood sugar levels.
One study show that psyllium can suppress appetite and energy intake, and reduce body weight [16]. Increased dietary fiber intake may contribute to reductions in WC, BMI, and body weight [8].
Why You Might Feel That Fiber Causes Weight Gain. Suddenly or drastically increasing your fiber intake, especially without drinking enough water, can result in gas, bloating and constipation. When your stomach is bloated, or you do not have regular bowel movements, you might feel like you've gained weight.
Some studies suggest that soluble fiber, such as psyllium (Metamucil's active ingredient), can make you feel full longer. This may lead you to eat less calories overall during the day. And over time, this could cause some people to lose weight.
Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.
Never walk barefoot, use harsh chemicals or tools (like corn pads or razor blades) on corns/calluses, and don't soak feet in hot water; these actions risk injury, infection, and severe damage due to potential nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation in diabetics, leading to ulcers and complications.
We recommend taking Metamucil three times per day at mealtimes as a convenient way to get the benefits of Metamucil. However, if you are taking Metamucil to help to temporarily suppress appetite you should take it before eating. Bulk-forming fibres like psyllium husk, may affect how well medicines work.
Signs and symptoms of eating too much fiber
HOW TO TAKE METAMUCIL: (For adults 12 years and older) Put 1-2 tablespoons in empty glass. Mix briskly with 8 oz or more of cool liquid. Drink promptly and enjoy!
Psyllium husk powder is an effective Metamucil alternative, and other options include methylcellulose (Citrucel), wheat dextrin (Benefiber), or ground flaxseed, as they work similarly by adding bulk to stool and promoting regularity, according to the most recent evidence from 1.
Metamucil may help with weight loss, but only in a modest way. – Research shows small, short-term reductions in weight and appetite. – Effects are greater when combined with healthy eating and exercise. – It is not a primary weight loss solution.
Take over-the-counter medicines
The psyllium fiber in Metamucil helps lower cholesterol to promote heart health† by trapping some cholesterol in the digestive system to be removed with waste. When you take psyllium fiber, it forms a gel-like substance that moves through your digestive system.
According to its proponents, you use the pinch method by holding the thumb and index finger of one hand just above the wrist of the other hand and then exerting a little bit of pressure on the wrist. Doing this will supposedly cause the release of insulin and break down glucose.
Why does diabetes cause pain in your feet? When you have diabetes, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels. The nerves and blood vessels supplying the feet are long and delicate. Because of that, the feet — and especially the toes — often get affected first.
If you have diabetes, remember that not all socks are created equal. Try to choose socks that: Are white or light-colored to make it easy to spot any bleeding or drainage, for example, if you have a cut or an ingrown toenail. Fit well and aren't too tight.
Metamucil's cons include common side effects like gas, bloating, cramps, and nausea, especially when starting. More serious concerns involve potential intestinal blockage or choking if not taken with enough liquid, potential interference with medication absorption, and risks for people with certain conditions or allergies. It can also contain added sugars, sweeteners, or sodium, depending on the product.
Do not take Metamucil for more than seven days in a row without a doctor's advice. Laxatives can be habit-forming if they are taken too much or for too long. If you find Metamucil is not working for you, call your doctor for advice. Also, call your doctor if your symptoms worsen or do not improve.
Metamucil (psyllium) is a laxative that helps relieve occasional constipation. It's available over the counter (OTC) in several different forms. You can take Metamucil at any time of day. But it's a good idea to avoid taking it at bedtime.
Not drinking enough water when eating a fiber-rich diet can also lead to digestive discomfort. With that said, a high intake of dietary fiber is actually associated with weight loss, not weight gain.
Overview: Psyllium is used to help prevent and relieve occasional constipation. Common side effects may include feeling bloated or changes in your pooping habits. If you do not take psyllium with enough water, it can cause you to choke.
As with any dietary change, your body needs time to adjust. While you'll likely notice the regularity* benefits of Metamucil sooner, we're confident that after two weeks you'll be feeling lighter and more energetic** and well on your way to making it a part of your daily health routine.