Irritable bowel syndrome is a painful yet fairly common disorder which can cause both diarrhea and constipation. People who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may find that their symptoms vary based on their mood, their stress level and their diet. Though there is no cure for IBS, Benefiber, a fiber-rich supplement, may be able to help reduce some of the symptoms associated with IBS.
What is IBS?
Irritable bowel syndrome affects the colon, and causes gas cramping, bloating and pain, according to the Mayo Clinic. According to the Mayo Clinic, IBS is often misunderstood because people with IBS can alternate between having diarrhea and being constipated. These painful and often embarrassing symptoms can decrease the quality of a person's life, as people with IBS may have to avoid social situations and certain foods when they aren't feeling well.
Benefiber
Benefiber is a fiber supplement which is available in many different forms such as a pill or a powder to mix into drinks. While Benefiber comes in several flavors, the most popular type is the original, flavorless powder because it can be mixed into any drink without altering the taste. According to the Benefiber website, the main ingredient in Benefiber, and the only ingredient in original flavored powder Benefiber is wheat dextrin.
Wheat Dextrin
Wheat dextrin is a soluble form of dietary fiber, meaning it binds to water in the stomach and intestines, and slows digestion. The Benefiber website states that wheat dextrin contains a very small amount of gluten so it may or may not be acceptable for use by people who also have Celiac disease. Wheat dextrin is a carbohydrate which is also used as a food additive to increase the stability of foods.
Fiber and IBS
According to the journal "Clinical Nutrition", dietary fiber can help decrease some of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. The journal states that soluble fibers, such as wheat dextrin, are more effective in treating IBS than insoluble fibers. Since fiber adds bulk to stool weight, it decreases and prevents constipation. People who suffer from constipation frequently should consider eating more fiber or using Benefiber.
Considerations
Irritable bowel syndrome is more complex than simply taking fiber to improve all of the symptoms. Many people with IBS get diarrhea. The Mayo Clinic states that fiber can make gas, cramping and diarrhea worse for some people. You should always talk to your doctor before you change your diet or try a new dietary supplement. The Mayo Clinic recommends starting by using only a small amount of Benefiber and then gradually increasing the amount until you reach the recommended dose, so that you don't upset your digestive system.
