Benefiber is a soluble-fiber supplement; the main ingredient is wheat dextrin. The product is available as tablets, powder and chewable pills. Benefiber is safe for children ages 6 to adult, according to Drugs.com. Younger children should only take it under a physician's care. However, it is best to consult your doctor before supplementing your diet with Benefiber, regardless of your age.
Age Considerations
Whether you buy the chewable, powder or caplet form of Benefiber, the manufacturer recommends you take each individual dose up to three times daily. Benefiber powder comes in four different formulations. Children ages 6 to 11 should take 1 teaspoon per dose. The dosage for older children and adults is 2 teaspoons. Dissolve Benefiber powder in 4 to 8 oz. of a non-carbonated drink or mix it with soft hot or cold foods such as apple sauce or porridge. Benefiber powder is also available in individual packets of pre-measured doses. Children older than age 12 and adults need 3 chewable tablets per dose for a maximum of 9 tablets daily. Children under age 6 should take 1½ chewable tablets per dose. Benefiber caplets are for adults only. Three caplets constitute one single dose.
About Dextrin
Wheat dextrin provides the fiber in the Benefiber products. Dextrin is a gummy substance that results when water breaks down starch. Although Benefiber is a fiber, it does not have a fibrous consistency. Instead, it dissolves completely in liquids and when you mix it with soft foods.
Why Fiber
According to the American Dietetic Association, fiber induces your bowels to move, keeping waste from accumulating in your body. Dietary fiber may help lower your cholesterol and maintain healthy levels of glucose in the bloodstream. In addition, fiber fills your stomach, making you feel full for longer periods of time. This effect gives fiber the potential to help you stay at a healthy weight. Women need 25 g of fiber daily, while men need 38 g. Women over age 50 should decrease their daily fiber intakes to 21 g, while men over age 50 need 30 g of fiber daily. However, as individual needs can vary, discuss these recommendations with your doctor.
Benefiber and Daily Intake
The manufacturer of Benefiber does not establish a firm daily dosage of the supplement. It instructs you to take each individual serving up to three times daily. Two tsp. of Benefiber powder provide 3.5 g dietary fiber. Three doses give you a maximum of 10.5 g. You should include enough fibrous foods in your daily menu to meet the recommended intake from the American Dietetic Association for your age and gender.
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