Benefiber is a powdered fiber supplement that can be added to beverages or foods when cooking or baking. Benefiber provides 3 g of fiber per serving. Unlike other fiber supplements, it dissolves completely in liquid and does not change the flavor, texture or consistency of the liquid. One benefit of fiber is that it slows the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
Method of Action
Benefiber is considered soluble fiber. According to the Joslin Diabetes Center, soluble fiber can help control blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber slows the absorption of sugar from foods and beverages that you consume, into your bloodstream. If taken with a meal, Benefiber can help slow digestion, allowing you to feel full longer and helping to prevent blood sugar spikes.
Carbohydrates
Although fiber is listed underneath the heading of carbohydrates on food labels, it doesn't raise your blood sugar. Fiber actually lowers the amount of total carbohydrates in foods because fiber isn't digested or absorbed into the body. Diabetics and other individuals who practice carbohydrate counting are able to subtract the amount of fiber in a food from the total carbohydrates in food. This is another way in which fiber is beneficial in the control and regulation of blood sugar levels.
About Benefiber
Benefiber is made of wheat dextrin and contains no sugar itself. Benefiber does manufacture products such as flavored packets that can be added to water for a flavored beverage. In order to achieve the recommended 21 to 38 g of fiber per day, depending on your age or sex, Benefiber may be taken multiple times per day. Taking Benefiber doses with meals is necessary if you want the benefit of slowing the sugar absorption from your meal.
Considerations
Discuss taking Benefiber with your doctor, particularly if you take prescription medications. Benefiber can also slow the digestion of foods in your stomach and may impact the absorption of medications as well. Your doctor will advise you about the dose of Benefiber and the times it should be taken. Diabetics and others concerned with their blood sugar should continue to monitor their blood glucose daily and continue the treatment regimen prescribed by a doctor or other health care professional
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