Metamucil is a natural laxative product that is commonly used to treat digestive system problems such as diarrhea and constipation. Scientific research indicates, however, that Metamucil use may also be an effective way of lowering high cholesterol levels. Although Metamucil is available over-the-counter, do not begin taking Metamucil as a treatment for elevated cholesterol until you've spoken to your doctor. There are a number of side effects and possible medication interactions associated with Metamucil that could cause serious health problems.
Metamucil
Metamucil is a brand name for psyllium, a bulk-forming laxative that is made up of the seed husks and seeds of the Plantago ovata herb. When psyllium powder is mixed with water and consumed, it forms a thick mass in the digestive tract. As it passes through the bowels, it stimulates intestinal muscle contractions and can relieve constipation by softening stool. Because of its ability to absorb water, it can also thicken loose stools and treat diarrhea. Metamucil may also be useful as a treatment for high blood pressure, hemorrhoids and diabetes and may help decrease the risk of colon cancer and cardiovascular disease, but more research is needed.
Effect on Cholesterol
According to MayoClinic.com, Metamucil use may lower both your total cholesterol levels as well as your LDL, or "bad" cholesterol levels, especially when combined with a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. Studies that supplemented subjects with 10 to 12 g of psyllium daily for seven weeks found that total cholesterol levels dropped as much as 14 percent and LDL cholesterol levels decreased by 5 to 10 percent, according to Medline Plus. Taking 15 g of Metamucil daily may allow people taking cholesterol-lowering statin drugs to use a lower dosage of statins and still effectively lower their overall cholesterol levels. Despite the favorable studies, using psyllium as a treatment for high cholesterol has not yet been fully endorsed by medical institutions such as the American Heart Association; don't begin using it to control cholesterol without first talking to your doctor.
Possible Side Effects
Metamucil can cause side effects like abdominal pain, headaches, backaches, diarrhea, nausea, bloating and gas. If you do not drink enough water when using Metamucil -- at least six to eight glasses daily -- you may become constipated. Avoid Metamucil use if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria, high blood pressure, kidney disease, a colostomy or a history of digestive system problems. The effectiveness of medications such as blood thinners, antidepressants, lithium, carbamazepine, digoxin, tetracycline, doxycycline and diabetes-controlling drugs may be compromised by Metamucil use. Stop taking Metamucil immediately and seek medical assistance if you experience sudden facial swelling, rectal bleeding, difficulty breathing, trouble swallowing, severe stomach pain, vomiting or an unusual skin rash.
Considerations
If you use Metamucil regularly for more than seven days, you may cause permanent damage to your intestinal muscles and nerves since the intestinal tract can gradually develop a tolerance to psyllium's effects, requiring larger and larger doses in order to achieve the same effects. Consult your doctor before using Metamucil and carefully follow all instructions about dosage and length of use. Do not use Metamucil for longer than a week unless you are under the direction of a physician.
References
- MayoClinic.com: High Cholesterol
- Drugs.com: Metamucil
- MedlinePlus: Blond Psyllium
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Psyllium
- Permanente.net: Psyllium - Lower Your Cholesterol
- "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Long-term Cholesterol-lowering Effects of Psyllium as an Adjunct to Diet Therapy in the Treatment of Hypercholesterolemia; James W. Anderson, et al.; June 2000
