Taking fiber pills may help regulate your digestive system, but they can also cause temporary gastrointestinal symptoms. One of the most popular fiber supplements is psyllium husk, which is high in soluble fiber. This supplement is commonly used to treat constipation and diarrhea and to help lower cholesterol. Before taking fiber pills, talk with your doctor because some fiber pills may interact with medications.
Fiber
Fiber is carbohydrates that the body cannot digest. Fiber is an important part of the human diet because it adds roughage to waste, making stools bulkier, softer, and easy to pass. Without enough fiber in your diet, you may develop constipation and other digestive problems.The Harvard School of Public Health states that the average American eats about 15 g of fiber daily, but should eat around 30 to 35 g daily. The best source of fiber is from what you eat, but if your doctor recommends fiber pills to treat certain conditions, they can help supplement over the short term.
Digestive Side Effects
Fiber pills will not affect your stomach permanently but may cause increased gas, bloating and stomach pain for a few days. MedlinePlus explains that when you suddenly increase the amount of fiber in your diet, the bacteria that live in your digestive system are not accustomed to the amount of fiber. The interaction between the harmless bacteria and increased fiber can cause gas that may becomes trapped in the digestive system. You may develop gas pains from any gas that is not expelled through flatulence. Gas pains cause sharp, jabbing pains that come and go throughout the abdomen. Most common digestive side effects from fiber pills subside after 1 to 3 days.
Liquid Consumption
If you don't consume enough liquid while taking fiber pills, you have an increased chance of developing constipation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fiber pills are primarily soluble fiber, which absorbs water during digestion, creating a gel-like substance that softens the stool. If there isn't enough water in your digestive system, the soluble fiber can absorb too much water, creating dry and hard stools that are difficult to pass.
Allergy Consideration
According to Drugs.com, some people may experience an allergic reaction to psyllium husk. During an allergic reaction, generally harmless substances trigger the body's immune system to release chemicals, such as antibodies and histamine, meant to protect against foreign pathogens. Theses chemicals, when released in the digestive system, lead to inflammation in the lining of the stomach and intestines. Report any suspected allergy symptoms to your doctor, such as shortness of breath, hives and facial swelling.
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