According to the Harvard School of Public Health, your body does not digest the carbohydrate commonly known as fiber. This helps your body push out other food particles that make their way through your digestive tract, and keep your intestines clean and healthy. An average adult man should get more than 30 g of fiber per day and an adult woman at least 20 g. It is best to obtain fiber from the food that you eat, suggests the Mayo Clinic. This can include whole-wheat cereals, fruits, beans and vegetables. You can also take fiber supplements if you are not obtaining enough fiber from your diet.
Metamucil
Metamucil is a type of psyllium-based fiber supplement. Psyllium, which is the seed of the herb plantago major, forms a bulk that can aid your digestive tract in the elimination of fecal matter, helping treat constipation. It comes in the form of a powder that you can add to your morning juice or smoothie. You can also take it individually, diluted in filtered water. You should always consult your doctor before taking Metamucil and only take it as directed for no longer than a week, unless it is prescribed by your doctor. Taking Metamucil can have certain side effects that include vomiting, nausea, difficulty breathing and swallowing. If you experience any of these side effects, stop your intake of Metamucil and contact your doctor.
Citrucel
Citrucel is a gluten-free fiber supplement made from methylcellulose. Methylcellulose expands in the intestines as it absorbs their water. This stimulates your intestines to have bowel movements to eliminate the methylcellulose. It is usually prescribed to slow down diarrhea and as an aid for irritable bowel syndrome. Since Citrucel is a bulk-forming fiber supplement, it will add bulk to your stool and will help other fecal matter travel smoothly down your gastrointestinal tract. Consult your doctor to determine if Citrucel is the right supplement for you.
FiberCon
FiberCon is another gluten-free fiber supplement made from calcium polycarbophil, which is a synthetic ingredient, according to the website Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment. It comes in caplets, which make it easier to take when you are on the road or on a tight schedule. FiberCon also contains calcium in each caplet and it does not ferment in your colon, as some natural fiber supplements may have a tendency to do. Consult your doctor before taking FiberCon, especially if you are already under any type of medical treatment.
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