Before You Buy Fiber Supplements

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Before You Buy Fiber Supplements

From Amber J. Tresca,

Your Guide to Irritable Bowel/Crohn's Disease.

Not all fiber supplements are created equally! There are actually three main

types of soluble fiber supplements: Psyllium, Methylcellulose, and

Polycarbophil. Each type of fiber has varying uses, side effects, and

properties. Talk with your doctor about fiber supplements to determine which

is best for your body. When shopping for fiber, look closely at the

ingredients to discover which type is used in each commercial brand.

Remember to drink plenty of water when taking any kind of fiber.

Psyllium

Psyllium is a fiber supplement that can be taken every day to bulk up stool,

making it easier to pass. It works by breaking down in the gut and becoming

a food source for the " good bacteria " there. It is used for treating for

constipation, IBS, and diverticulosis. In addition, psyllium may also lower

cholesterol levels by 10-15%. On the downside, psyllium does contain

calories and may cause gas.

Methylcellulose

Methylcellulose is a fiber that is nonallergenic, non-fermentable, can be

taken every day and is created from the cell wall of plants. It is not

absorbed by the intestinal tract but instead absorbs water to create a

softer stool. Methylcellulose is often used to treat constipation,

diverticulosis, IBS and some cases of diarrhea. Because it does not ferment

it is less likely to cause intestinal gas.

Polycarbophil

Similar to methylcellulose, polycarbophil is created from plants and is not

absorbed by the body. It absorbs water in the intestinal tract and creates a

bulkier and softer stool. Polycarbophil is less likely to cause bloating and

can be used long term. It may be used to treat constipation, IBS, and

diverticulosis. This form of fiber is not appropriate for people who have

difficulty swallowing.