Metamucil is an over-the-counter laxative and fiber supplement. Metamucil is advertised to help lower cholesterol and promote heart and digestive health. It is often recommended to patients who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, diverticular disease, hemorrhoids and constipation. Although often recommended to individuals with such disorders, Metamucil can also be taken on a daily basis to help maintain proper digestive function.
Main Ingredient
The main functional ingredient in Metamucil is psyllium, a source of both insoluble and soluble fiber. Psyllium is mainly harvested in India and Pakistan and is imported by the United States. Pysllium is considered a bulking fiber due to its mechanism of action. It functions as a laxative by increasing the bulk of the contents of the colon and significantly decreasing transit time of these contents. Although fiber can be obtained through conventional dietary methods, Metamucil provides an easy way to add fiber to the diet.
Benefits
Fiber is an important dietary component that has a wide array of health benefits. Fiber promotes intestinal health and regularity and helps lower cholesterol levels. Fiber prevents fat from being absorbed and helps keep us feeling full longer. This can indirectly help with weight loss by suppressing the appetite. Fiber also helps to lower the risk of developing certain life-threatening diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Types
Metamucil is available in a wide variety of product types. It comes in bulk powder drink mixes, powder singles, capsule and wafer forms. The powder drink mixes are available in a variety of flavors and both original and sugar-free types. The sugar-free varieties are useful for those with diabetes. Metamucil wafers also come in a variety of flavors; however, unlike the drink mixes, they are not available in a sugar-free variety. There are three types of capsules available: an original version, one specific to heart health and the other geared toward bone health.
Side Effects
Although side effects are not common and most are not severe, they are sometimes observed in individuals who use Metamucil or other psyllium fiber supplements. Minor side effects can include bloating, diarrhea, rumbling sounds in the stomach, nausea or mild abdominal cramps. More severe side effects that may be noted are vomiting, severe abdominal pain or trouble swallowing. It is possible for minor side effects to resolve themselves; however, if they persist or if major side effects occur, a physician should be contacted immediately.
Considerations
When increasing fiber intake, it is important to increase water intake as well. If water is not increased it is very likely that stools will become more compact and hard, which will result in painful and difficult bowel movements and sometimes even constipation. This can generally be avoided if Metamucil drink mixes are used or if capsules and wafers are consumed with a glass of water. As long as these conditions are met, Metamucil is safe to consume on a regular and long-term basis.
