It's common knowledge that fiber is essential for digestive and overall health. If you want to increase your fiber intake by taking a fiber supplement every day, take a few concerns into consideration. Don't take a fiber supplement every day without first talking with your doctor. Fiber supplements may be habit forming, they can restrict your absorption of certain medications and the supplements lack vitamins and minerals found in foods, according to MayoClinic.com. Inform your doctor if you're currently taking a daily fiber pill.
Fiber Pills
Fiber pills are commonly used to treat occasional diarrhea. Fiber is the part of plant-based foods, such as vegetables, whole grains and fruit, that is not digested by the body. The undigested carbohydrates help to soften and move your stool more effectively throughout your colon. Most fiber supplements sold over-the-counter are made from psyllium husk fiber, a soluble fiber that pulls water from your intestines during digestion, making your stool softer. Follow the instructions on the bottle while taking fiber pills. Report any adverse reactions to your doctor immediately.
Interference Concern
Over-the-counter fiber pills may interfere with certain medications and reduce certain minerals from being absorbed into your body. If you're currently taking prescription medications, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the fiber supplements you're currently taking. Medications that may be affected by a daily fiber supplement include diabetes medications, antidepressants and cholesterol medications.
Habit-Forming
Laxatives, such as fiber supplements, may cause a dependence on the supplement to have normal bowel movements. If you use fiber supplements for too long, you may damage the muscles tissues and nerves that line your intestinal wall. Drugs.com recommends avoiding the daily use of fiber pills if you have trouble swallowing, expereince nausea, vomiting, stomach or a change in your bowel movements that last for more than two weeks.
Considerations
Only your health care provider can determine the safety of using a fiber pill every day. For example, if you've been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome, your doctor may prescribe fiber supplements to help alleviate chronic constipation.
If you develop a skin rash, hives, facial swelling, shortness of breath or nasal congestion from using a fiber supplement, stop using immediately. These are signs of an allergic reaction, which could lead to serious complications.
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