A:
There's no evidence that daily use of fiber supplements — such as psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl, others) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) — is harmful. Fiber has a number of health benefits, including normalizing bowel function and preventing constipation.
For the smooth powder, use 1 rounded tablespoon (about 18 grams) for digestive problems. If you're using the smooth powder as an appetite suppressant before meals, you can use 2 rounded tablespoons (about 36 grams).
As a dietary fibre supplement:Metamucil can be taken every day up to three times per day as a dietary fibre supplement.
Taking too much Metamucil can cause Metamucil overdose symptoms which can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or other symptoms of an overly high fiber diet. In addition, some Metamucil products contain potassium, which should not be taken in high doses. Keep the product out of the reach of children.
Metamucil is an OTC laxative, known as a bulk-forming laxative. Its active ingredient is psyllium husk. Psyllium husk is plant-based and a natural fiber derived from the Plantago ovata plant. Metamucil comes in several dosage forms, including capsules, wafers, and a powder you mix into a beverage.
Contraindicated in people with fecal impaction or gastrointestinal obstruction (bowel blockage). Some people are allergic to psyllium, and Metamucil should be stopped and emergency treatment sought if hives, difficulty breathing, or facial swelling occurs. Not suitable for children younger than six.
This medication is used to treat constipation. It increases the bulk in your stool, an effect that helps to cause movement of the intestines. It also works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making the stool softer and easier to pass.
Try to sit on the toilet 15 to 20 minutes after breakfast. Do not ignore the call to open your bowels. Putting off the call to go can cause constipation. Try to work with the body's natural rhythm (emptying the bowel first thing in the morning).
Psyllium (Metamucil, Fybogel, generics) – One teaspoonful of psyllium twice daily is often recommended for constipation, so why use it for diarrhea? The answer is that it has a water-holding effect in the intestines that may help bulk up watery stool. Some doctors recommend it for the variable bowel habit of IBS.
Metamucil powder formulations deliver approximately 2.4 g of soluble fibre per serving.
A: Any time of day is appropriate to take Metamucil fiber as long as an adequate intake of fluids (at least 8 ounces of water or liquid per serving) is consumed. We recommend taking Metamucil between one and three times per day at mealtimes as a convenient way to get the benefits of Metamucil.
Using psyllium husk
Usually you'll need to take it twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. When you take your evening dose you'll need to make sure you wait an hour before you go to bed – if you go to sleep too soon, this can cause a blockage in the gut.
Dietary fiber increases the weight and size of your stool and softens it. A bulky stool is easier to pass, decreasing your chance of constipation. If you have loose, watery stools, fiber may help to solidify the stool because it absorbs water and adds bulk to stool.
Some of the serious side effects of Metamucil are:
Constipation which lasts more than 5 days. Rectal Bleeding. Severe Stomach pain.
For new users, start by taking a small amount of Metamucil and then gradually increase to the recommended dosage to allow your system to adjust and to minimize gas and bloating.
Any time of day is appropriate to take Metamucil as long as an adequate intake of fluids (at least 240 mL of water or liquid per serving) is consumed. We recommend taking Metamucil three times per day at mealtimes as a convenient way to get the benefits of Metamucil.
Benefiber and Metamucil are not the only name brand supplements to relieve constipation on the market, and some people may find they like other brands better. Two popular alternatives are Citrucel and Miralax.
To help slow down stools, take Imodium or Lomotil at the time your doctor or nurse suggests. Taking medicinal fiber, such as psyllium (Metamucil®) or methylcellulose (Citrucel®) with two ounces of water slows the movement in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The fiber absorbs excess fluid like a sponge.
Generally speaking, you can go about five days without pooping before you run into the risk of serious health issues like fecal impaction, hemorrhoids, or a bowel perforation.
Psyllium usually produces a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours. Do not take psyllium for longer than 7 days in a row without a doctor's advice. Using a laxative too often or for too long may cause severe medical problems with your intestines. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.