Metamucil Frequently Asked Questions | Metamucil

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SMOOTH TEXTURE AND COARSE MILLED ORIGINAL TEXTURE ?

Metamucil Smooth Fibre Supplement Powder is ground into finer particles than Metamucil Coarse Fibre Supplement Powder. Because of individual taste differences, you may prefer either Metamucil Smooth products or the Metamucil Coarse products.

HOW DOES METAMUCIL HELP TO TEMPORARILY SUPPRESS APPETITE WHEN TAKEN PRIOR TO A MEAL ?

When taken with 240 mL of liquid prior to a meal, Metamucil psyllium fibre thickens and forms a gel which aids in the sensation of fullness and prolongs the intestinal phase of nutrient digestion and absorption, helping to temporarily increase feelings of fullness and reduce food intake.

HOW DOES METAMUCIL WORK FOR LAXATION ?

Metamucil contains a bulk-forming fibre without any chemical stimulants. The active ingredient, psyllium husk, is a soluble viscous fibre that absorbs and holds moisture. This causes the psyllium to swell, supplying the necessary bulk to help form an easily eliminated stool. Metamucil will not cause immediate evacuation but generally produces an effect in 12 to 72 hours.

WHY IS THE SERVING SIZE DIFFERENT FOR SUGAR AND 75% LESS SUGAR POWDERS ?

Serving size amounts differ by version because the sweeteners and flavorings used in each Metamucil product vary in volume.

IS IT OK TO TAKE METAMUCIL WITH FOOD ? SHOULD I TAKE IT BEFORE OR AFTER MEALS ?

Any time of day is appropriate to take Metamucil as long as an adequate intake of fluids (at least 240 mL of water or liquid per serving) is consumed. We recommend taking Metamucil three times per day at mealtimes as a convenient way to get the benefits of Metamucil. However, if you are taking Metamucil to help to temporarily suppress appetite you should take it before eating.Bulk-forming fibres like psyllium husk, may affect how well medicines work. Take this product at least 2 hours before or after medicines.

IS IT OK TO USE METAMUCIL EVERY DAY ?

As a dietary fibre supplement:Metamucil can be taken every day up to three times per day as a dietary fibre supplement. If you are considering use of Metamucil as part of a cholesterol-lowering program* please follow label’s instructions for correct directions and always consult a doctor before using. See below for information about soluble fibre and heart disease.For digestive health:Metamucil can be used for occasional constipation and to promote and maintain regularity. If your constipation persists beyond seven days, consult a doctor because it may be a sign of a more serious condition.Bulk-forming fibres like psyllium husk, may affect how well medicines work. Take this product at least 2 hours before or after medicines.

CAN METAMUCIL BE USED PAST THE EXPIRATION DATE ?

If your Metamucil has expired, please don’t use it. The expiration date is on Metamucil because we have research to show that the ingredients are stable until the expiration date, if stored according to label instructions. Please discard any expired product in your trash can. Do not pour Metamucil down your drain.

CAN I ADD METAMUCIL POWDER TO MY COFFEE OR HOT TEA ?

No, adding Metamucil to hot beverages causes it to gel more rapidly. We recommend adding Metamucil to cool or cold liquids.

HOW CAN METAMUCIL HELP ME MAINTAIN HEALTHY BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS ?

The psyllium in Metamucil forms a viscous gel, which traps some sugars as the gel moves down the intestine. Trapped sugars are slowly released and absorbed into the body—helping the body maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

HOW AND WHEN SHOULD I TAKE METAMUCIL FIBRE CAPSULES ?

Capsules should be taken one at a time; we do not recommend dissolving them in water. Please take Metamucil with at least 240 mL of liquid, as indicated. For Metamucil Fibre Capsules and Capsules Plus Calcium, we recommend taking them 3 times daily with at least 240 mL of liquid, as indicated. Bulk-forming fibres like psyllium husk, may affect how well medicines work. Take this product at least 2 hours before or after medicines.

WHY IS METAMUCIL NOW “75% LESS SUGAR” INSTEAD OF “SUGAR-FREE” ?

This is the same great Metamucil product you had been using – the product hasn’t changed, just the label ! Health Canada recently began to recognize maltodextrin as a sugar, which is an ingredient we use in some of our products. In order to be compliant with the new classification by Health Canada, we changed our label to accurately communicate what is in our product. If you had previously been enjoying our product, then we hope you continue to do so. It is still the same great product ! If you are concerned with the 1.9 g of Maltodextrin, Metamucil capsules are a great way to get the benefits of psyllium fibre without any sugar.

Prunes vs. Psyllium for Reducing Constipation

In a study, published in Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics,¹ researchers compared the effectiveness of a popular natural supplement, psyllium (Metamucil®), to a natural food remedy that humans have been consuming for thousands of years, dried plums (prunes).  They concluded that prunes are superior in providing safe, effective relief of mild to moderate chronic constipation.

Chronic constipation is a frustrating condition, affecting up to 20% of the world’s population.¹ Since only one third of constipation sufferers seek medical assistance, there is a substantial market for over-the-counter treatments, including fibre supplements, stool softeners, laxatives, and enemas.

Prune vs. Psyllium Study

For fourteen weeks, the researchers followed forty subjects, aged 18-75, whose symptoms met the Rome III criteria for chronic constipation, but not for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). For the first week, the study participants used no laxatives or other constipation treatments. The researchers then randomly assigned half of the participants to start with a treatment of 11g of psyllium with 8oz of water, twice a day, and the other half to start with 50g of prunes (approximately 12 prunes) with meals, twice a day. Each treatment equalled 6g of fibre a day.

After three weeks, there was another one-week washout period before the groups switched and used the opposite treatment for three weeks. Throughout the first eight weeks of the study, participants completed a daily stool symptom diary. They then returned to their regular constipation remedies for six weeks, completing the daily symptom diary for only the final week of that period, before meeting with the researchers for a final follow-up visit.

The researchers’ primary measure was the number of complete spontaneous bowel movements (CSBMs) per week; they also analysed the number of incomplete and/or non-spontaneous bowel movements per week, global constipation symptoms scores, stool consistency, straining scores, satiety, postprandial fullness, abdominal bloating or distension, and palatability of the treatment (i.e., the taste!). The researchers found that, while both treatments provided constipation relief, the average number of CSBMs per week was significantly higher during treatment with prunes than with psyllium, with an average of 3. 5 CSBMs with prunes and 2.8 CSBMs with psyllium. The researchers also note that the prune therapy resulted in softer stools, although straining scores were about the same with both treatments. The study participants found the remedies equally palatable and experienced no symptoms such as postprandial fullness or bloating with either treatment.

The researchers found that, while both treatments provided constipation relief, the average number of CSBMs per week was significantly higher during treatment with prunes than with psyllium, with an average of 3.5 CSBMs with prunes and 2.8 CSBMs with psyllium. The researchers also note that the prune therapy resulted in softer stools, although straining scores were about the same with both treatments. The study participants found the remedies equally palatable and experienced no symptoms such as postprandial fullness or bloating with either treatment.

Study Recommendations

The laxative mechanism of prunes is not yet fully known but researchers suspect it is likely related to the combination of sorbitol, water-soluble fibre, and polyphenols that they contain. Fibre is a bulking agent known to help with digestion, and sorbitol, which is often used to sweeten sugar-free foods, is known to act as an osmotic laxative, even without any fibre. Interestingly, some previous studies have shown sorbitol to cause gas and bloating, but subjects in this study did not report these side effects.

The researchers recommend prunes as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate constipation; however, they note that their study did not include patients with IBS, severe constipation, or pelvic floor dysfunction. In The Inside Tract®, Issue #177, we reported on a study that found polyethylene glycol to be a more effective osmotic laxative than lactulose for chronic constipation.

If you suffer from chronic constipation and are unsure of the right treatment for you, talk to your physician for a specific recommendation.

Do you enjoy prunes?

You’re in good company; Confucius was writing about his love of prunes back in 479BC. Pompey and Alexander the Great were also unabashed fans. Plums are still a big hit worldwide; they are the second most cultivated fruit (apples fill the number one spot).

Prunes: good for more than constipation relief

Prunes slow the rate at which food leaves the stomach, helping dieters feel full sooner and for longer periods. They’re also fat free and, even with their natural sugars, only a mere 11 calories each. Prunes contain good amounts of potassium and iron, and antioxidants, including lutein. With these nutrients, you could find benefit for your eyes, skin and hair, and even some help in the battle against osteoporosis.

Think you don’t like prunes?

Try substituting your favourite raisin dishes with prunes, such as baked goods, breakfast cereal, and any number of delicious sweet and savoury dishes.

Want to learn more about constipation?

We have several related articles that may be helpful:

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First published in the

Inside Tract® newsletter issue 179 – 2011

Image left © Konstantin Gushcha | Dreamstime.

com, Image right © Antonin Spacek | fotolia.com

1. Attaluri A

et al. Randomised clinical trial: dried plums (prunes) vs. psyllium for constipation. Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeurics. 2011;33:822-828.

Psyllium Information | Mount Sinai

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Anderson JW, Allgood LD, Lawrence A, et al. Cholesterol-lowering effects of psyllium intake adjunctive to diet therapy in men and women with hypercholesterolemia: meta-analysis of 8 controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr. 2000;71:472-9.

Bliss DZ, Savik K, Jung HJ, Whitebird R, Lowry A, Sheng X. Dietary fiber supplementation for fecal incontinence: a randomized clinical trial. Res Nurs Health. 2014;37(5):367-78.

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Burke V, Hodgson JM, Beilin LJ, Giangiulioi N, Rogers P, Puddey IB. Dietary protein and soluble fiber reduce ambulatory blood pressure in treated hypertensives. Hypertension. 2001;38(4):821-826.

Chan MY, Heng CK. Sequential effects of a high-fiber diet with psyllium husks on the expression levels of hepatic genes and plasma lipids. Nutrition. 2008;24(1):57-66.

Chandalia M, Garg A, Lutjohann D, von Bergmann K, Grundy SM, Brinkley LJ. Beneficial effect of high dietary fiber intake in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. .N Eng J Med. 2000;342:1392-8.

Chang HY, Kelly EC, Lembo AJ. Current gut-directed therapies for irritable bowel syndrome. Curr Treat Options Gastroenterol. 2006 Jul;9(4):314-23.

Cicero AF, Derosa G, Manca M, Bove M, Borghi C, Gaddi AV. Different effect of psyllium and guar dietary supplementation on blood pressure control in hypertensive overweight patients: a six-month, randomized clinical trial. Clin Exp Hypertens. 2007;29(6):383-94.

Fernandez-Banares F. Nutritional care of the patient with constipation. Best Pract Res Clin Gastroenterol. 2006;20(3):575-87. Review.

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Jänne PA, Mayer RJ. Chemoprevention of colorectal cancer. N Engl J Med. 2000;342(26):1960-8.

Krauss RM, Eckel RH, Howard B, Appel LJ, Daniels SR, Deckelbaum RJ, et al. AHA Scientific Statement: AHA Dietary guidelines Revision 2000: A statement for healthcare professionals from the nutrition committee of the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2000;102(18):2284-99.

Liu S, Manson JE, Stampfer MJ, et al. A prospective study of whole-grain intake and risk of type-2 diabetes mellitus in women. Am J Pub Health. 2000;90:1409-15.

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Pal S, Radavelli-Bagatini S. Effects of psyllium on metabolic syndrom risk factors. Obes Rev. 2012;13(11):1034-47.

Petchetti L, Frishman WH, Petrillo R, Raju K. Nutriceuticals in cardiovascular disease: psyllium. Cardiol Rev. 2007 May-Jun;15(3):116-22. Review.

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Difference Between Citrucel and Metamucil

Constipation is a common digestion-related problem which is viewed mainly as a condition seen in elderly patients, but it affects people of all age groups too. Elderly patients often complain of constipation when their stools become hard and difficult to pass. Infants and children also complain of irregularities in their bowel movement. Although constipation can affect people of all age groups, studies suggest an increase in incidence with age, especially after 65. People usually refer to one or more of the following symptoms that may or may not indicate constipation: infrequent stools, straining while passing stools, stools become hard, a lack of urgency to evacuate, and pain when trying to defecate. It is believed that patients who are low in dietary fiber may be prone to constipation. Now talking about treatment, bulk-forming laxatives are great over the counter fiber replacement products that are used to treat constipation if home remedies do not work. Two of the most common fiber supplements are Citrucel and Metamucil.

What is Citrucel?

Citrucel is a clinically proven bulk producing fiber laxative used to gently help relieve constipation and irregularity in the bowel movement. The lack of fiber in the diet is a major cause of constipation in developed countries. Bulk laxatives such as Citrucel replace this missing fiber and unlike other laxatives, they can be used for prolong periods of time without any side effects. Citrucel helps increase the amount of water in your stools, forming a gel that promotes healthy bowel movements without unwanted side effects like excess gas. Citrucel contains Methylcellulose, a chemical compound derived from cellulose and a gelling agent that increases the amount of water in stool making it softer and easier to pass. Citrucel is available in orange mix and sugar-free orange mix powders and talking about dosage, one teaspoonful of the powder should be taken with at least 8 ounces of water of other fluids at the first sign of irregularity, up to three times daily. It is also available in tablets form called Citrucel caplets.

What is Metamucil?

Metamucil is a natural soluble fiber supplement to treat constipation and irregularities in the bowel movement. Metamucil is the only leading brand to contain a 100 percent plant-based natural fiber called Psyllium Fiber, which is derived from the seeds of an herb called Plantago ovate grown mainly in India. It is a kind of bulk forming laxative that helps promote digestive health by maintaining and restoring regularity. Metamucil has as much soluble fiber as two bowls of oatmeal; in fact, many doctors recommend taking Metamucil as a fiber source on a regular basis. It contains that extra fiber that you may need to maintain regularity in your bowel movements safely and naturally. Metamucil comes in capsule, powder and liquid forms, and helps you maintain a healthy appetite. In addition, it is also a great fiber supplement solution for many things such as high cholesterol, blood sugar, and appetite control.

Difference between Citrucel and Metamucil

Active Ingredient

 – Both Citrucel and Metamucil are common bulk producing fiber laxatives that absorb liquid in the intestines to form a soft, bulky stool. The active ingredient in Citrucel is Methylcellulose, a chemical compound derived from cellulose and a gelling agent that increases the amount of water in stool making it softer and easier to pass. Metamucil is the only leading brand to contain a 100 percent plant-based natural fiber called Psyllium Fiber, which is derived from the seeds of an herb called Plantago ovate that is grown mainly in India.

Dosage 

– Citrucel is available in orange mix and sugar-free orange mix powders, and caplets. In regards to dosage, the instructions suggest that those aged 12 and above take one teaspoonful of the orange-flavored product or the sugar-free orange mix in 8 ounces of water or other fluids at the first sign of irregularity, up to three times daily. Each Citrucel caplet contains 500 mg of methylcellulose and those aged 12 and over are directed to take 2 caplets as needed with 8 ounces of water up to six times daily. Those aged 6 -12 take on-half of the adult dose.

Metamucil is a great fiber sources and comes in capsules, powders, powder packets, and fiber thin chocolates. Metamucil fiber powders are available in orange with real sugar and sugar-free, and unflavored with real sugar. Sugar free powders also come in orange zest, berry smooth, and original smooth variants. The standard dosage for the capsules is 2 to 5 per serving up to 4 times a day. As per directions, up to 2 teaspoonful of powder is to be taken with 8 ounces of water or other fluids up to three times daily. Mix in a full glass of water, stir and drink right away.

Citrucel vs. Metamucil: Comparison Chart

Summary

In a nutshell, both Citrucel and Metamucil are common bulk producing fiber laxatives that absorb liquid in the intestines to form a soft, bulky stool. Although, slightly different, both have essentially same health benefits, especially to relieve constipation. Citrucel, however, has no unwanted side effects like excess gas, which can be a problem for Metamucil because it contains Psyllium husk powder which can be gassier than other types of fiber. In addition, Metamucil is a great fiber supplement solution for many things such as high cholesterol, blood sugar, and appetite control.

Sagar Khillar is a prolific content/article/blog writer working as a Senior Content Developer/Writer in a reputed client services firm based in India. He has that urge to research on versatile topics and develop high-quality content to make it the best read. Thanks to his passion for writing, he has over 7 years of professional experience in writing and editing services across a wide variety of print and electronic platforms.

Outside his professional life, Sagar loves to connect with people from different cultures and origin. You can say he is curious by nature. He believes everyone is a learning experience and it brings a certain excitement, kind of a curiosity to keep going. It may feel silly at first, but it loosens you up after a while and makes it easier for you to start conversations with total strangers – that’s what he said.”

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Constipation | MedNow Clinics | Denver, CO | Aurora, CO | Lakewood, CO

Is this your symptom?

• Trouble passing bowel movements (BMs): straining, hard stools, or rectal pressure
• BMs are not regular

Some Basics…

• Normal bowel movement (BM) frequency varies from 3 times a day to 3 times a week.
• Trouble or pain passing a BM or infrequent BMs may mean a person has constipation.
• Passage of a large BM is not constipation. The amount of food a person eats determines the BM size. The more a person eats, the larger the BM.
• The passage of small, dry, rabbit-pellet-like stools is not constipation. This is from a lack of fluids.
• Healthy living and eating habits can help prevent and treat constipation.

Causes

• Not enough fiber in diet: this makes BMs hard and more difficult to pass. Fiber will help hold more water in the stools. Good sources of fiber are fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, and bran. A person can also take fiber supplements (like Metamucil).
• Not enough liquids: this causes stools to be dry and harder to pass. Adults should drink 6-8 glasses of water a day.
• Lack of exercise: this decreases bowel function. Exercise helps keeps the bowels regular. People who have to stay in bed are more likely to be constipated. They may get fecal impaction.
• Holding in BMs: some people ignore their body’s signals for having a BM. This can lead to problems with constipation.
• Recent travel: travel can cause constipation. It gets in the way of normal diet and BM cycle.
• Taking narcotic (opiate) medicines. Narcotic pain medicine can cause constipation. All persons taking narcotic pain pills, especially the elderly, should also be taking a laxative like docusate (Colace).

Prevention

• Eat a high fiber diet. Drink plenty of liquids.
• Exercise regularly (even a daily 15 minute walk!).
• Get into a rhythm. Try to have a bowel movement (BM) at the same time each day. Don’t ignore the body’s signals to have a BM.
• Avoid enemas and laxatives.

When to Call for Constipation

Call Doctor or Seek Care Now Severe rectal pain that does not go away after a Sitz bath or suppository You feel weak or very sick You think you need to be seen, and the problem is urgent

Contact Doctor Within 24 Hours Stomach pains come and go, and have a fever Stomach is more swollen than normal Last stool was more than 3 days ago Leaking stool You think you need to be seen, but the problem is not urgent Contact Doctor During Office Hours Constipation is not better after using Care Advice Constipation off and on for weeks or months (less than 3 stools per week or straining more than 25% of the time) Minor bleeding from rectum happens often Can’t have a bowel movement (stool) without using a laxative, suppository, or enema Weight loss greater than 10 pounds (5 kg) and not dieting Taking new prescription drug You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home

Care Advice

Constipation

1. What You Should Know:
   • Trouble passing a stool, hard stools, and infrequent stools are signs of constipation.
   • Healthy living habits can help treat and prevent constipation. Healthy habits include eating a diet high in fiber and regular exercise.
   • You can treat mild constipation at home.
   • Here is some care advice that should help.
2. General Constipation Instructions:
   • Eat a high fiber diet.
   • Drink enough liquids.
   • Exercise regularly (even a daily 15 minute walk!).
   • Get into a rhythm. Try to have a BM at the same time each day.
   • Don’t ignore your body’s signals to have a BM.
   • Avoid enemas and stimulant laxatives.
3. Eat a High Fiber Diet:
   • Slowly increase the amount of fiber in your diet. This will help soften your BMs. Fiber works by holding more water in your stools.
   • Eat more fresh fruit and vegetables. They are great sources of natural fiber. This includes peas, prunes, citrus, apples, beans, and corn.
   • Eat more foods made from whole grains. Foods made from whole grains also have fiber. Examples are bran flakes, bran muffins, graham crackers, oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat bread. Popcorn is also a source of fiber.
4. Liquids:
   • Drinking enough liquids is important to keep your stools soft.
   • Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day. Caution: certain medical problems require fluid restriction.
   • Prune juice is a natural laxative.
   • Avoid alcohol.
5. Exercise:
   • Staying active is always a healthy choice.
   • Regular exercise decreases constipation.
   • Even a daily walk for 15 minutes helps.
6. Get Into a Rhythm:
   • Try to have a BM at the same time each day. The best time is about 30-60 minutes after breakfast or other meal.
   • Don’t ignore your body’s signals to have a BM.
7. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Constipation lasts more than 2 weeks after using Care Advice
   • Abdominal swelling, vomiting or fever occur
   • Constant or increasing abdominal pain
   • You think you need to be seen
   • You get worse

Rectal Pain

1. What You Should Know:
   • The skin around the rectal area has a rich nerve supply. Pain in this area can be intense.
   • Hemorrhoids (piles), anal fissures (skin cracks), and hard stools are the top causes of rectal pain.
   • You can treat pain from hemorrhoids, anal fissure, or hard stool at home.
   • Here is some care advice that should help.
2. Warm Sitz Baths Twice a Day:
   • Sit in warm bath water for 20 minutes 2 times each day. This helps clean and heal the rectal area.
   • If you want, you can add ¼ cup (80 grams) of table salt or baking soda to each tub of water. Stir the water until it dissolves.
   • This is also called a Sitz bath.
3. Hydrocortisone Ointment Twice a Day for Hemorrhoid Pain:
   • You can use 1% hydrocortisone ointment (Anusol HC) to decrease hemorrhoid pain and irritation.
   • Hydrocortisone is available over-the-counter at the drug store.
4. Rectal Pain and Can’t Pass Stool (blocked up feeling):
   • Sitz Bath: Take a 20-minute bath in warm water. It often helps relax the anal sphincter and release the stool.
   • Glycerin Suppository: If the Sitz bath does not work, try 1 or 2 glycerin rectal suppositories.
   • Enema: An enema should be used rarely and only after other measures have not worked. Talk to your doctor to find out if using enemas is safe for you.
   • The rectal pain should be completely gone after using this Care Advice. If the pain does not go away, you will need to be seen.
5. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Rectal pain not better after using Care Advice
   • Abdominal swelling, vomiting or fever occur
   • Constant or increasing abdominal pain
   • You think you need to be seen
   • You get worse

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines for Constipation

1. Step-By-Step: A step-by-step approach to using OTC medicines for constipation is best.

2. Step 1 – Use a Fiber Laxative Every Day:
   • You can take a fiber laxative every day instead of eating more fiber.
   • An example of a fiber laxative is psyllium (Metamucil). You can buy this at the store without a prescription.
   • Fiber can help soften your stools.
   • Fiber works by holding more water in your stools.
   • Be patient. Sometimes this takes 1 to 2 weeks to work.
   • Read the instructions and warnings on the package insert for all medicine you take.
3. Step 2 – Add a Stool Softener
   • For stools that are more firm or hard, try an over-the-counter stool softener. An example is docusate (Colace, Surfak).
   • These medicines soften stools and make them easier to pass. You can buy them at the store.
   • They may take 1 to 2 days to start working.
   • Read the instructions and warnings on the package insert for all medicines you take.
4. Step 3 – Use an Osmotic Laxative if Needed:
   • If needed, you can try an osmotic laxative to treat occasional constipation. Examples are polyethylene glycol (PEG and Miralax) and milk of magnesia. You can buy these at the store without a prescription. Another option is to try a glycerin rectal suppository.
   • These medicines help pull water into your intestines. This softens the stools. They often start working in 1 to 2 days. Glycerin suppositories often work within an hour or less.
   • Do not use laxatives for more than 2 weeks unless your doctor instructs you to do this.
   • Caution: do not use milk of magnesia if you have kidney disease.
   • Caution: if you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before using these laxatives.
   • Read the instructions and warnings on the package insert for all medicines you take.
5. Step 4 – Add a Stimulant Laxative:
   • If the constipation does not get better with the Care Advice in the above 3 steps, add a stimulant laxative. Use only if needed.
   • Try bisacodyl (Dulcolax) tablets. You can buy these at the store without a prescription.
   • These laxatives often work in 6 to 12 hours. Another option is Senna. This is a mild plant-based laxative.
   • Do not use laxatives for more than 2 weeks unless your doctor instructs you to do this.
   • Caution: do not use stimulant laxatives if you are pregnant.
   • Read the instructions and warnings on the package insert for all medicines you take.
6. Call Your Doctor If:
   • You have more questions
   • You think you need to be seen
   • You get worse

And remember, contact your doctor if you develop any of the ‘Call Your Doctor’ symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.

Last Reviewed:	11/17/2021 1:00:39 AM
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Fiber Supplements | Patient Education

A high-fiber diet will help you have soft, regular bowel movements. Having a bowel movement when your body gives you an urge to go is the best time to have a bowel movement. This will minimize problems with hemorrhoids, fissures, itching and other common colon, rectal and anal problems.

A diet high in fiber has about 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day. The information below will help you understand how to get that amount of fiber in your diet with supplements.

For information on getting more fiber through food, please see Increasing Fiber Intake.

Precautions

• Do not take if you have a narrowing in your esophagus or in your intestines
• If you are a diabetic, avoid the preparations with sugar
• If you need to watch your sodium intake, avoid the psyllium preparation
• If you are taking Tetracycline, avoid the polycarbophils
• If you have phenylketonuria, avoid the preparations with Aspartame
• If you are taking Coumadin, avoid the preparations with psyllium

Types of Supplements

Citrucel

• Dose – One tablespoon 1 to 3 times daily.
• Available forms – Orange flavored, sugar-free
• Form of fiber – Methylcellulose, powder equals 2 grams per tablespoon

Continue reading

Fiberall

• Dose – One tablespoon equals 2 grams soluble fiber and 1.5 grams of insoluble fiber.
• Available forms – Flavors include orange and tropical fruit as well as sugar-free.

FiberCon Caplets

• Dose – One caplet equals 500 mg of polycarbophil. Take 1 to 4 caplets a day.

Hydrocil Instant

• Dose – One teaspoon equals 3.5 grams of psyllium
• Form of fiber – Psyllium

Konsyl

• Dose – One teaspoon equals 6 grams of psyllium.
• Form of fiber – Psyllium

Metamucil

• Dose – One teaspoon or one wafer equals 3 grams of insoluble fiber and 2 grams of soluble fiber. Take up to three times a day.
• Available forms – Flavored or non-flavored, sweetened or artificially sweetened, regular or smooth. It comes in wafers,
  including apple crisp and cinnamon spice.
• Form of fiber – Psyllium

Perdiem

• Dose – One teaspoon equals 4 grams of psyllium. Take up to 1 to 2 teaspoons four times a day.
• Available forms – Mint flavored
• Form of fiber – Psyllium (stimulant)

UniFiber

• Dose – One tablespoon equals 3 grams of cellulose.
• Form of fiber – Cellulose

Constipation (for Teens) – Nemours KidsHealth

What Is Constipation?

Someone might have constipation if they:

• have fewer than three bowel movements (BMs) in a week
• have trouble having a bowel movement
• have stool (poop) that’s hard, dry, and unusually large

Constipation (pronounced: con-stuh-PAY-shun) is a very common problem. It usually isn’t a cause for concern. Healthy eating and regular exercise can help prevent it.

What Causes Constipation?

Reasons why people get constipated include:

• Unhealthy diet. Constipation is common if a person’s diet doesn’t include enough water and fiber, both of which help the bowels move as they should. People who eat lots of processed foods, cheese, white bread and bagels, and meat may find they’re constipated more often. A healthier diet that includes high-fiber foods (like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) can keep your poop moving.
• Not enough exercise. Exercise helps food move through the digestive system. So not getting enough physical activity can contribute to constipation.
• Stress. People can get constipated when they’re anxious about something, like schoolwork or a problem at home. Stress can affect how the digestive system works and can cause constipation or diarrhea.
• Ignoring the natural urge to go. Avoiding going to the bathroom, even when you really have the urge to go, can lead to constipation. When you ignore the urge to go, it can be harder to go later on.
• Some medicines. Medicines like iron supplements and antidepressants can lead to constipation.

In rare cases, constipation is a sign of a medical problem. Call your doctor if you’re concerned about your bowel movements.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Constipation?

Different people have different bathroom habits. So someone who doesn’t have a bowel movement every day isn’t necessarily constipated. One person might go three times a day, while another might go once every 2–3 days.

But if you’re going less than you normally do, or if it’s often hard or painful to go, you might be constipated. A person with constipation might:

• feel full or bloated
• feel pain when having a bowel movement
• have to strain a lot to have a bowel movement
• notice a little blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet

How Can I Deal With and Prevent Constipation?

To prevent and treat constipation:

• Drink more liquids. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps keep stools soft so they can move more easily through the intestines. When you don’t drink enough, poop can get hard and dry, and make it harder to go to the bathroom.
• Eat more fiber. Eating high-fiber foods, like fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain bread, can help prevent constipation. Fiber is not digested, so it helps move the poop along. A diet full of fatty foods and processed carbohydrates can slow the bowels down. To get more fiber in your diet, try fresh fruits like pears, apples (with the skin), dried fruits like figs and prunes, and vegetables, like broccoli and spinach. Other high-fiber foods include beans and lentils, whole-grain breads and cereals, oatmeal, and popcorn.
• Make sure you get enough exercise. Physical activity helps move food through the digestive system and nudges the bowels into action, so be sure to get plenty of exercise. It can be as simple as walking, cycling, or shooting a few hoops.
• Set a regular meal schedule. Eating is a natural stimulant for the bowels, so regular meals may help you develop routine bowel habits. You might schedule breakfast a little earlier to give yourself a chance for a relaxed visit to the bathroom before school.
• Get into the habit of going. Maybe you don’t want to use the bathroom at school, or maybe you just don’t want to stop what you’re doing right then. But ignoring your body’s signals that it’s time to go can make it harder to go later on.

Some medical conditions — like thyroid problems, diabetes, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — also can cause constipation. If you’re worried that your constipation is a sign of something else, talk to your parents and your doctor.

90,000

Clinical Research Constipation: Dried Plums, Metamucil – Clinical Research Register

Acceptability

Criteria:

Inclusion criteria: 1. Constipation according to Rome III criteria (3,4). Patients must have symptoms> 3 days per month for the past three months and report at least two of the following symptoms ≥ 25% of cases: straining, lumpy or hard stools, feeling of incomplete evacuation, feeling of anorectal obstruction / blockage, use of manual maneuvers, < 3 bowel movements per week.In addition, they must have insufficient criteria for IBS, and only rarely loose stools without the use of laxatives 2. Adults aged 18 to 75 years. Exclusion Criterion: 1. Patients taking drugs that cause constipation will be excluded or asked to stop taking the drugs for at least 2 weeks and reevaluate. For example, we will recommend that patients taking calcium channel antagonists contact their primary care physician to investigate alternative drugs for hypertension such as beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors.If calcium channel antagonists can be discontinued, patients will be re-evaluated at least two weeks after taking the medication. discontinued. If patients no longer meet the inclusion criteria, they will be excluded. from research. Patients who persist with constipation will be eligible for registration. 2. Patients with concomitant diseases such as severe cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease. failure, or patients with previous gastrointestinal surgeries other than cholecystectomy and appendectomy.3. Patients with neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, spinal cord. injuries, and those with cognitive impairments, i.e. a minimum mental development score of <15 and / or legally blind, will be excluded. 4. Patients with Hirschsprung's disease or active local anorectal problems such as anal fissures, bleeding hemorrhoids, etc. 5. Patients with alternating constipation and diarrhea and those who perform Rome III. criteria for irritable bowel syndrome.6. Patients taking dietary supplements, laxatives, PEGs, tegaserod or lubiprostone and unwillingness to stop taking these drugs at least 2 weeks before the study. 7. Subjects known to be allergic to psyllium or plums.

Floor:

All

Minimum age:

18 years old

Maximum age:

75 years

Metamucil side effects – heartburn, gas and diarrhea!

Nutritional supplements are used to maintain regularity in the digestive system. The fiber content of supplements may play a role in both preventing constipation and normalizing bowel function. In general, health experts agree that, whenever possible, getting the dietary fiber the body needs from food sources is always ideal. This is because while a powdered supplement can help in instant relief from constipation, there are some side effects and safety concerns to consider. Drug absorption can be reduced with the use of dietary supplements, and those taking certain medications, such as blood thinners and aspirin, should definitely check with a healthcare professional prior to use to ensure that the supplements are safe to use.Apart from potential drug interactions, there are also side effects to consider. And the side effects of metamucil associated with one of the most popular, most recommended and well-known remedies for blockage of the intestines may be surprising to some people.

Metamucil is a powdered product made from all natural fiber of psyllium, according to the manufacturer. Each serving provides 3 grams of fiber, and regular consumption can include up to three servings of this size each day.These benefits from Metamucil are numerous in this regard, as the addition of this mealy concoction can help relieve constipation due to its bulk-forming properties as well as promote overall bowel regularity. The product is also beneficial, according to WebMD, as part of a diet that aims to lower cholesterol levels, another added benefit of Metamucil. But, as with all types of medications and supplements, side effects do exist. These must be considered along with the potential benefits of the medication or supplement.The side effects of metamucil are usually mild and often go unnoticed. However, they do include some gastrointestinal effects that are worth noting.

Abdominal gas and stomach cramps are the most common side effects associated with metamucil. Abdominal gas from psyllium bulking laxatives such as metamucil is a bacterial reaction. As the Mayo Clinic explained, bacteria in the colon can actually ferment carbohydrates that are not digested in the small intestine, and this can lead to gas. Since the bulk of bulk laxative foods contain fiber that is not digested in the small intestine, it is easy to see how fermentation in the colon can lead to metamucil side effects such as excess gas. This can lead to abdominal discomfort and create feelings of fullness, pressure, and bloating.

Flatulences are not the only effects that psyllium supplement users experience. While Drugs.com, an independent agency providing comprehensive information on many commonly used prescription and over-the-counter drugs, notes that common and mild side effects associated with psychillia include changes in bowel habits and bloating, some users have indicated that side effects metamucil may include worsening symptoms of GERD, including acid reflux cough and increased bouts of heartburn.In many cases, it is likely that the perceived worsening of these symptoms, however, is more due to the gas and swollen symptoms known to be associated with metamucil, rather than their own individual effects, which can certainly influence the tolerability of heartburn symptoms.

Side effects of metamucil are also thought to include diarrhea. However, this may be a slight misconception. It is possible that as psyllium works to regulate the intestines and achieve proper fluid intake, stools become looser and watery, leading to diarrhea.But the manufacturer notes that diarrhea is not considered one of the few commonly expected side effects of metamucil. In fact, the product is designed to work in the opposite way, adding firmness and volume to stools and lightening those that are loose and watery. However, it is not uncommon for one or two episodes of diarrhea to occur when treating constipation, especially depending on the severity. But generally, this is not something that is caused by the use of a psyllium fiber supplement such as metamucil.

Metamucil remains one of the most reliable and physician-recommended products for achieving and maintaining a healthy gut regularity. It is considered to be incredibly safe, effective, and gentle. While there may be some side effects of metamucil that should be considered and discussed with a healthcare professional prior to use, the long-term benefits of a well-regulated and well-maintained colon go well beyond treating an acute case of constipation.

Constipation in adults – “AGAPE” Medical Center in Lublino

What is constipation?

Constipation is stool retention for 3 or more days, or when stool is excreted in less than 300 grams in 72 hours.

How often should you have a bowel movement?

The presence of daily stool is typical, but it must be borne in mind that, for example, 10% of healthy people can have a stool once every 2-3 days, provided there is no discomfort in the abdomen and satisfaction with defecation (the act of emptying the intestines naturally in medicine is indicated in a word – defecation). In general, the normal frequency of stool, in the absence of any pathology in the human body, is from three times a day to three times a week.

What causes constipation?

When food passes through the digestive tract due to peristalsis (contractions of the intestinal muscles), the body takes nutrients and water from it. As a result of this process, feces are formed and the urge to stool appears.

There are thousands of reasons for not having a chair at the right time. The most dangerous pathology is intestinal cancer. Intestinal cancer occurs in 3-5% of people and most often over the age of 40. Moreover, of the total number of all cases of intestinal cancer, up to 70% are in the rectum, i.e.That is, to the final segment of the large intestine, ending with the sphincter of the rectum (or the so-called anus). The first 7-10 cm of the rectum from the anus are accessible by conventional digital examination. Do not be shy if the doctor offers you this examination because at stake is no less – your life. If detected early, bowel cancer is completely curable, and this is the main thing!

The most common cause of constipation is a lifestyle that predisposes to constipation. When a person consumes an insufficient amount of dietary fiber, fluids, moves a little, takes any medications that affect intestinal motility (by the way, uncontrolled intake of laxatives leads to constipation), does not go to the toilet when he wants to, and abuses foods such as strong sweet tea, coffee, cocoa, chocolate, semolina and rice porridge, potatoes, blueberries, red wine, marinades, smoked meats, meat sausages, fatty meat, spicy dishes, white bread, pastry products, baked goods made from premium flour, – all this leads to constipation.

Of the whole variety of other reasons, one cannot fail to note diseases of various organs and systems, starting directly with the pathology of the gastrointestinal tract (peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, etc.), and ending with hereditary conditions (for example, elongated sigmoid colon, Hirschsprung’s disease, etc.), diseases of the nervous (paraplegia, cerebral palsy, etc.), endocrine (diabetes, thyroid disease), genitourinary (prostatitis) systems and even mental (depression, schizophrenia, anorexia nervosa, etc. …) and psychological (work in different shifts, unsanitary conditions in the toilet, morning rush) problems of the individual.

How to treat constipation and what to eat?

Self-medication of constipation can only aggravate the situation. See your doctor if constipation occurs for the first time, if constipation lasts three or more weeks, if you notice blood in your stool, and if you have pain in the abdomen or perineum. As opposed to self-medication, self-help is an integral part of the successful treatment of not only constipation, but any other disease.The key to self-help for constipation is changing your diet and lifestyle. You need to eat at least 4-5 times a day, in small portions. It is necessary to eat a sufficient amount of fiber-rich food and drink a sufficient amount of liquid (at least 2 liters per day, hypertensive patients and people with heart disease at least 1.5 liters). This helps the stool pass through the intestines, making the stool bulkier and softer. Of course, increased physical activity helps to normalize stool frequency.

The following foods are rich in fiber: legumes such as peas, ripe beans; vegetables: carrots, beets, pumpkin, zucchini, all types of cabbage; fruits and berries: apples, bananas, dates, dried apricots (apricots, peaches), figs, raisins, plums (prunes), raspberries, strawberries. There is a lot of fiber in whole grain cereals: wheat, buckwheat, pearl barley, oatmeal. There is a lot of fiber in seaweed, as well as in sunflower halva. Nowadays, the lack of dietary fiber can be easily compensated for with dietary bran.Starting with 3-4 tablespoons added to cereals, kefir, if necessary, you can bring the amount of bran to 10-15 tablespoons. Vegetable oil is useful. We need boiled lean meat and fish. You need fresh low-fat dairy products without sugar: kefir, yogurt, acidophilus. Recommended mineral waters: “Essentuki” No. 4, 17, “Slavyanskaya”, “Lipetskaya”, “Demidovskaya”, “Krainskaya”, “Kozelskaya”.

Do I need to take laxative medication?

Any medicinal laxative should only be used on the advice of your doctor.Long-term use of these funds leads to an increase in the dose, to addiction, to a deficiency of vitamins A, D, E and K and others, to the loss of important trace elements, dehydration, dysbiosis, liver and kidney damage, and severe allergic reactions. It is important to periodically replace laxative drugs with one mechanism of action with drugs with a different mechanism. Laxatives are usually taken in short courses. These medicines are not meant to be taken long-term. The exception is the so-called mass-forming laxatives.They are composed of oat bran and psyllium (Metamucil brand), polycarbophil (FiberCon brand) or methylcellulose (Citrucel brand). Mass-forming laxatives work naturally by increasing stool mass and water volume so that it can pass through the intestines more easily. Mass-forming laxatives can be taken daily and for a long time.

How to take a mass-forming laxative?

For a mass-forming laxative to work, it must be taken every day.Follow the directions on the package. Start with a small dosage and drink plenty of fluids. Increase the dosage every 3-5 days until the desired effect occurs. To improve the taste of the bulk laxative, you can take it with fruit juice.

Does the bulking laxative have side effects?

At first, some gas or cramping may occur, especially with a large starting amount of the drug or if the dosage is increased too quickly. These symptoms should go away in a few weeks or less.

Can I try enemas?

Usually, enemas are optional. Many people use enemas too often. Let the body do better in a more natural way.

What if I have been using enemas or laxatives for a long time?

If you have been using laxatives or enemas for a long time, patience is required: it can take several months for normal stool to recover.During this period, you need to eat more fibrous food, take mass-forming laxatives, consume more water, increase physical activity and accustom yourself to stool at a certain time.

Tips for preventing constipation

• Don’t suppress the urge to go to the bathroom.
• In the morning it is useful to drink a glass of cold boiled water, and then – a glass of cold kefir without sugar.
• Set yourself a constant time to empty your bowels.This is best done after breakfast or another meal.
• Eat more fiber-rich foods.
• Drink plenty of fluids – at least 8 glasses a day. This includes water, juices, soup, tea and other drinks.
• Do not use laxatives too often or for too long.
• Do therapeutic exercises, if health allows yoga, massage the abdomen clockwise, move more.

Recipe of Professor Nadezhda Timofeevna Larchenko

This recipe combines several natural ingredients and can be used in a course lasting up to 2 months: mix 250 grams of dried apricots with the same amount of prunes, add 1 tablespoon (top) of Alexandrian leaf (senna), add 1 tablespoon of flaxseed (you can use olive or vegetable) oils and a teaspoon of natural honey.Stir all this, store in the refrigerator for 7-10 days. The dose should be selected individually, starting with 1 tablespoon (with top) at night, if necessary, bring to 6 or more tablespoons.

Sources:

http://samdoctor.ru,

Compiled by: E. A. Zelenenko, V. K. Dyachkovsky, MC “AGAPE”.

Answer

How to deal with constipation after surgery

How to deal with constipation after surgery

Surgery can be stressful and can take a toll on your body.

Can I drink a laxative after surgery? Can I take a laxative for hemorrhoids? How to go to the toilet for large folk remedies? How to remove constipation at home? What foods can help relieve constipation? To get answers to all these questions and find out how you can get rid of constipation, keep reading this article.

Constipation is a common side effect of surgery that people often don’t expect.

This can worsen the discomfort during the healing process, but there are ways to deal with it.

Continue reading to learn how surgery can lead to constipation and how to deal with it.

Constipation?

Constipation symptoms include:

• having fewer than three bowel movements per week
• experience a sudden decrease in bowel movements
• The need for tension during bowel movements
• bloating or flatulence
• having stomach or rectal pain
• hard chair
• feeling of incomplete emptying after defecation

If you experience this after surgery, see your doctor for advice on how to manage constipation.

Causes of constipation after surgery

Several factors can contribute to constipation after surgery.

This includes:

• Narcotic pain relievers, such as opioids
• General anesthesia
• inflammatory stimulus, such as trauma or infection
• electrolyte, fluid or glucose imbalance
• prolonged inactivity
• dietary changes, especially insufficient fiber

How to deal with constipation after surgery

Changes in lifestyle and diet can help prevent constipation after surgery, or at least reduce its duration.

Be active

Start walking as soon as the doctor gives you the go-ahead.

If you are about to have knee replacement surgery, exercise will be part of your treatment program and your physical therapist will advise you on the appropriate exercises.

This not only helps with constipation, but also promotes the overall healing process, while reducing the likelihood of blood clots.

Adjust medication intake

Postoperative drugs slow down intestinal motility, so try to limit your use.

Research shows that nearly 40 percent of people experience constipation while taking opioids. This is called opioid constipation.

If you can tolerate pain and your doctor approves of it, choose ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) instead.

Treatment of constipation after surgery

After surgery, you should also schedule a stool softener such as Colace.A fiber-laden laxative such as psyllium (metamucil) may also be helpful.

Buy a preoperative laxative or stool softener so that you have them on hand when you get home.

If you have severe constipation, you may need stimulant laxatives, suppositories, or enemas to induce a bowel movement.

If over-the-counter laxatives don’t work, your doctor may prescribe prescription drugs that draw water into the intestines to stimulate bowel movements.

Linaclotide (Linzess) or lubiprostone (Amitiza) are two such medicines.

What to eat before and after surgery

Eating a high-fiber diet before surgery can reduce your overall risk of constipation. This, in turn, can help you avoid constipation after surgery.

You should also drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, on the days before and after your surgery.

You can also add prunes and prune juice to your post-op diet.

A high fiber diet may include:

• whole grain
• fresh fruit
• vegetables
• beans

Avoid foods that may increase the risk of constipation. This includes:

• dairy products
• white bread or rice
• processed food

When to see a doctor

Untreated, constipation can sometimes cause painful and potentially serious complications.

These may include:

• anal fissures
• hemorrhoids
• fecal seal
• rectal prolapse

Constipation usually responds to treatment or resolves in time. However, if it persists, you should call your doctor.

Get medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• rectal bleeding
• rectal pain
• Abdominal pain not directly related to surgical incision
• Abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting

How soon should the treatment take effect?

The time it takes to recover from constipation can be influenced by various factors.

This includes:

• your general health
• activity levels
• the diet you usually follow
• The time you spent under anesthesia or narcotic pain reliever

Stool softeners and fiber laxatives usually bring relief within a few days. If they don’t work, ask your doctor about other options.

If your doctor prescribes stimulant laxatives and suppositories but they don’t work within 24 hours, seek additional advice.

Prevention: Be Active

Constipation usually does not cause serious complications, but can cause severe pain, discomfort and distress.

Depending on the type of surgery, this can lead to reopening of the surgical incision, which is a serious complication. This is why it is important to tell your doctor if you have constipation.

It is not always possible to prevent constipation after surgery, but there are some steps you can take ahead of time to reduce the effect.

If you want to lose weight by switching to a healthy and balanced diet instead of a quick weight loss diet, you can buy the diet online at an affordable price (click and start losing weight!)

Here are some tips:

• Work with your doctor to plan a diet and treatment plan before and after surgery.
• Ask your doctor about your treatment options for constipation.
• Tell your doctor if you commonly experience constipation.
• Drink plenty of fluids before and after surgery.
• Stock up on high fiber foods, stool softeners or laxatives in advance so they are ready to eat during your recovery.

Psyllium plantain powder 95% -99% – FELICATA UKRAINE

Psyllium husk powder is a soluble fiber that supports digestive health.

Psyllium, also known as ispagula, helps relieve diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and more.

Psyllium husk fiber has many of these benefits and is a staple in nutritional supplements, both in powder and capsule form. In this article, you will learn about all the benefits, side effects and how to use psyllium husk.

What is psyllium husk?

Plantain is the name given to the seeds of the plant Plantago ovata , a shrub plant that is primarily found in India, although it grows all over the world. Psyllium , also known as Ispagula , has been used in traditional Indian and Asian medicine as a natural herbal remedy for a variety of health problems.

Psyllium husk fiber is a form of soluble fiber. This means that it dissolves in water and forms a gel-like mass that softens stools, facilitates bowel movements and improves regularity without increasing flatulence (gas).

Benefits of psyllium husk

Psyllium husk is primarily used as a laxative, but research shows this herb has many other benefits to promote digestive and heart health.

Constipation and psyllium powder

Psyllium Hull Fibers are soluble fibers that absorb water, creating a gel-like texture that softens stools and relieves constipation symptoms. A number of studies have conclusively demonstrated the effectiveness of psyllium husks in relieving constipation.

One randomized, double-blind study published in 1998 compared the laxative effects of psyllium powder (brand name of metamucil) and docusate, a sodium-based laxative. Psyllium has been found to soften stools better by increasing water content than traditional medicinal laxatives.

In addition to facilitating bowel movements in constipated patients, psyllium husks are beneficial for the gut microbiome, an important ecosystem of bacteria within the colon. According to a small 2019 study, shredded psyllium husk powder was especially beneficial for the intestinal flora of constipated participants.

In this study, psyllium husks increased three key types of bacteria ( Lachnospira , Roseburia , and Faecalibacterium ) that produce butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that promotes gut health and fights inflammation.The researchers also found that psyllium powder correlated with higher water content in stools, faster passage through the large intestine, and looser stools.

☝ Is psyllium husk a prebiotic? ☝ Psyllium mainly supports the health of the gut microbiome by promoting healthy bowel movements. It is only slightly fermented by intestinal bacteria.

Psyllium husk for diarrhea

Psyllium fiber is an effective remedy for mild to moderate diarrhea.When psyllium comes in contact with water, it absorbs water, which has several benefits for diarrhea:

• Improving the consistency of loose and watery stools
• slowing down of colonic transit
• Decrease in urgency of defecation
• decrease in frequency of bowel movements

Psyllium husk and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome is a medical condition that affects people in different ways, causing constipation, diarrhea, or both.Other symptoms include stomach pain, bloating, and gas.

Certain fermentable dietary fibers, such as inulin, can worsen IBS symptoms because they cause digestive gases when metabolized by gut bacteria.

Psyllium is minimally fermented, which means that gut bacteria release less gas from it, making it suitable for patients with irritable bowel syndrome. According to a 2017 study, plantain is considered effective worldwide for IBS symptoms.

Cholesterol and blood pressure

Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber that supports heart health by lowering cholesterol and raising blood pressure in people with hypertension.

A 2010 study found that overweight or obese volunteers who took 12 grams of psyllium supplements three times daily had significantly lower total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels at 6 and 12 weeks.

Taking a psyllium powder supplement during a healthy diet had the greatest effect on cholesterol.

Soluble dietary fiber also has a positive effect on blood pressure in people with hypertension (high blood pressure).

According to a 2020 meta-analysis examining the effect of psyllium husk on blood pressure, taking 10-15 grams of psyllium per day significantly lowers blood pressure. The effect was strongest in people with the highest blood pressure.

Weight loss

Soluble fiber has been shown to increase feelings of fullness (feeling full) by slowing down digestion, which can promote healthy weight loss. According to a 2010 study, psyllium husks may promote sustained weight loss.

This study in patients with metabolic syndrome (a set of symptoms including an imbalance of lipids and blood glucose) demonstrated that participants who received psyllium husk powder lost 3.3 kg over a 6-month period.

How to use psyllium husk

Add psyllium husk fiber to cocktails to relieve constipation

Psyllium is available in a variety of forms and is sold under many brands as a mild laxative.

Plantain Hull Powder is found in over-the-counter laxatives. It can also be bought online and added to baked goods, water, or smoothies to increase your daily fiber intake. Psyllium husks absorb 20 times their weight in water, so make sure you drink plenty of water.

Plantain Husk Capsules – An alternative way to increase fiber content. The capsules can be swallowed with a large glass of water and may be preferable for people who don’t like the texture of crushed psyllium husk powder.

Dosage of psyllium husk

Adjust this dosage only under the direction of a healthcare professional. Studies have shown that 5 grams per day softens stools and has a laxative effect for constipation.

METAMUCCIL AND DISPLACEMENT – MEDICAL

Contents:

Increasing your fiber intake may have a positive effect on your health, but at first you may develop digestive side effects. Metamucil is a brand of soluble fiber products including powdered supplements, pills, and waffles that contain psyllium husks 1. Metamucil may help relieve constipation and diarrhea and lower cholesterol, according to Metamucil.com 1. Metamucil is not recommended for everyone and should not be taken without first consulting a doctor.

Metamucil

Metamucil products contain 100% soluble fiber using psyllium husk 1. Psyllium husk is widely used in a variety of fibrous foods for its ability to increase stool mass while softening it. When you ingest fiber from psyllium husk, the substance remains undigested throughout your digestive system.It absorbs water, relieves stool and helps to increase volume, which helps with diarrhea. Metamucil products are designed to be used with large amounts of water; insufficient water intake can lead to suffocation and constipation 1.

Bloating

Bloating is a common side effect when you start taking Metamucil products due to the high fiber content in your diet. 1. Bloating is the result of air build-up in the stomach and intestines, which can cause bloating. Bloating may cause mild stabbing pain in the intestines until gas is released from flatulence or belching. Although bloating is a common side effect with psyllium fiber, if bloating persists for more than three days or if you experience severe pain, see your doctor.

• Bloating is a common side effect when you start taking Metamucil products due to the increased amount of fiber in your diet 1.
• Bloating may cause mild stabbing pain in the intestines until gas is released from flatulence or belching.

Dosage

To avoid excessive bloating from using Metamucil, use the recommended dosage indicated on the product label 1. According to Metamucil.com, adults should use 1 tablespoon 8 ounces of liquid 3 times a day 1. Children under 12 years of age should not use Metamucil unless directed by a doctor.If you notice excessive bloating from the recommended dose, use less product and gradually increase the amount over several days until you reach your maximum daily dose.

IBS Review

Your doctor may recommend Metamucil products for treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms, especially if you suffer from chronic constipation 1. If your constipation persists within three days of use or if you develop more severe symptoms, discontinue use. The dose recommended by MedlinePlus for IBS is 10 grams three times a day.

Precautions

Use of psyllium fiber may cause an allergic reaction. If you develop bloating, shortness of breath, skin rashes, hives, facial swelling, abdominal pain, nasal congestion, and vomiting, see your doctor. Psyllium fiber may interact with some prescribed medications. Do not use Metamucil products without first consulting your pharmacist or doctor. 1.

• Use of psyllium fiber may cause an allergic reaction.
• Do not use Metamucil products without first consulting your pharmacist or doctor 1.

home and veterinary treatment, first aid, symptom recognition, prevention

Pets often suffer from digestive problems.Often the owner himself is to blame for this, neglecting the correct feeding of the animal. Retention of feces is fraught with acute intoxication and possible damage to the intestinal walls. To prevent unpleasant consequences, a responsible owner needs to know what to do if his cat or cat is constipated.

What constitutes constipation?

Constipation in a cat is a prolonged delay in bowel movement, making it difficult to completely or at least partially empty the bowel.Count the number of times your pet visits the litter box per day to identify the problem. The norm for adult animals is once a day, for older animals – once every two days, for kittens – 2 times a day. The frequency of bowel movements depends on the metabolic rate. The younger the animal, the faster its metabolic processes.

Separately, it is worth considering the feces themselves. In a healthy cat, they should be oblong, soft and dark brown. A change in shape, consistency and color is a reason for going to a veterinary clinic.

Reasons for the absence of a chair

The absence of stool is only a symptom, not a disease. Before starting treatment, you need to understand what the root cause is. Delayed defecation occurs when:

• the ingress of a foreign body into the digestive tract;

• neoplasms or accumulation of hairballs in the intestine, that is, obstruction;

• the stress of moving, weaning, or new family members;

• inflammation in the paraanal glands or rectum, accompanied by acute pain when trying to defecate;

• pancreatitis, that is, inflammation of the pancreas;

• improper diet – insufficient amount of water, fiber and animal proteins;

• infestation with helminths;

• hormonal disorders;

• taking antibiotics, diuretics, anthelmintic and antihistamines;

• excess weight caused by a sedentary lifestyle;

• insufficient hygiene of the tray or unpleasant smell of the litter.

Also, possible reasons include surgery. If the cat has recently been spayed or neutered, then just wait until the effects of the anesthesia pass. For detailed instructions on care and handling in case of complications, contact your veterinarian.

Symptoms of the problem

If your pet begins to visit the litter box less often than usual, watch it.With behavioral reasons associated with stale filler, he will regularly make piles in the wrong place. Do not scold your pet for this and change the tray often. Clean animals rarely walk past their toilet. When an unpleasant odor appears, they can meow loudly, urging the owner to solve the problem. Be aware of these situations.

A serious pathology can be talked about when concomitant symptoms appear, including:

• painful and distended abdomen;

• vomit;

• temperature increase;

• depression and refusal to eat;

• prolonged stay in the tray, accompanied by a plaintive meow;

• mucus or blood in the stool, a change in its color and consistency;

• the presence of blood in the anus or its swelling caused by trauma to the rectum.

Lack of defecation, alternating with periodic diarrhea, is a sign of enterocolitis, that is, simultaneous inflammation in the small and rectum. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a doctor. After finding the listed symptoms, be sure to make an appointment with the veterinary clinic.

The danger of a long absence of a chair

With prolonged absence of stool, feces accumulate in the intestines.If the delay is partial, then the accumulation process takes longer, but this does not diminish its danger.

Feces are toxic waste. The longer they remain in the body, the more they poison it. This affects the work of internal organs and can provoke the appearance of neoplasms. With complete blockage, intestinal obstruction occurs – a dangerous condition fraught with death.

Under the pressure of feces, the intestinal walls can rupture.All contents will enter the body, causing severe intoxication. In order to avoid the death of a pet, you need to urgently go to a veterinary clinic if the cat has not walked a lot for more than 2-3 days in a row.

Helping an animal in the first place

Eliminate feeding for a couple of days. This will reduce the strain on the intestines. Ensure adequate fluid intake to soften stool. If your pet avoids water, drink it through a syringe without a needle.

A constipation laxative for cats is prescribed only by a veterinarian. The independent choice of medicines is fraught with an increase in the inflamed process. To alleviate the condition, before admission to the veterinary clinic, the pet can be given petroleum jelly, but only if there is no vomiting.

In contrast to adult cats, constipation in kittens is often associated with too early separation from the mother. Try giving them a gentle massage, moving along the tummy towards the anus.Massaging movements stimulate peristalsis and help emptying.

If you are not sure of the reason, then it is better to entrust the kitten to specialists. He is more vulnerable to intoxication, and his intestines are more quickly clogged with waste. In case of late treatment, the baby may need the help of a surgeon.

Treatment methods

Knowing the possible treatments for constipation in your cat can help you avoid the dangerous consequences.In the absence of accompanying symptoms and a single problem with defecation, the situation can be dealt with on your own.

Drug therapy

It is recommended that you consult with your veterinarian before taking any medication. Having described the condition of the animal, you can find out what can be given to a cat with constipation, and what not. Depending on the situation, your doctor may advise the following types of laxatives:

1. Bulk-forming (Metamucil) .Draws in additional moisture from cells, increasing the volume of faeces. Not suitable in an emergency.

2. Emollients (Dokuzat sodium) . Suitable for emergency emptying. Contraindicated when feeding or expecting offspring.

3. Osmotic (Duphalac, Lactusan) . Softens stool and stimulates peristalsis. They are not suitable for urgent care, but they have a beneficial effect on the microflora.

4. Lubricants (pastes for wool removal) . Provide free sliding along the intestinal walls due to their hydration.

5. Stimulating (Bisacodyl) . They stimulate the contraction of the intestinal muscles and help to get rid of the obstruction in a short time. Contraindicated in pregnant and lactating pets.

Taking laxatives on your own can lead to severe dehydration, so don’t experiment on your pet.Sometimes it is enough to simply change the filler or change the diet. And everything that is more complicated – leave to the doctor.

Castor oil or liquid paraffin

The most popular folk remedies are castor oil and petroleum jelly. Vaseline oil does not accumulate in the body, so it is difficult to overdo it here. Veterinarians recommend giving 1 ml per 1 kg of animal weight using a syringe or syringe. Once in the body, the oil softens stagnant feces and promotes their removal.

But with castor oil it is better to be careful. The cat’s body is not compatible with it, so instead of relieving it, you will cause severe stomach pains to your pet.

Is it possible to give an enema

Treatment of constipation in cats and cats at home with an enema is permissible only after examination by a doctor. This procedure is prohibited for chronic pathologies and obstruction, as it can aggravate their course.

Working with an enema is complicated by discomfort.In the absence of skills, the pet will constantly break free, and a successful outflow of feces can “decorate” a considerable part of the room. If the veterinarian gave the go-ahead, and you are not afraid of difficulties, study the detailed instructions and proceed with the procedure.

Why you shouldn’t use folk remedies

The main danger of folk remedies is the unpredictability of the body’s reaction. The cat may develop allergies or severe poisoning.Healing decoctions are good in complex therapy, but only under the guidance of a doctor who has checked the absence of an allergic reaction to the main components. Eliminating the problem without more effective drugs will not work.

Power supply correction

At the initial stage of the disease (partial emptying of small balls), you can try to establish nutrition. Start feeding your pet:

1. fractionally, increasing feeding up to 6 times a day;

2. thinner food, soaking dry granules or adding broth to ready-made meals;

3. lean grated meat and raw liver;

4. ground pumpkin, carrots and beets, or just feed the cat with their juice through a syringe;

5. milk cereals and fresh dairy products (yogurt, kefir).

Avoid foods that increase gas (legumes, yeast), bones and cartilage. Temporarily exclude rice, which has a strengthening effect, from the diet. Add to the dish a small amount of bran and vegetable oil (0.5 tsp per day), which stimulate peristalsis.

When using dry food, pay attention to the veterinary ruler marked i / d.These products are rich in coarse dietary fiber and are designed for those suffering from digestive problems.

Massage

Not all pets are ready to admit a person to their belly. If the animal trusts you, then try to accustom him to light massage. Stroke your pet’s tummy clockwise at any free time. The procedure can be carried out with bare hands or with a cloth soaked in cool water.

When vet help is needed

You cannot do it on your own when any alarming symptoms appear that affect the usual state of the pet.A plaintive meow is a signal for help. Listen to the mustachioed pet and try to postpone all other things until you find out the cause of the problem.

After abdominal surgery, pay close attention to the timing. The delay in defecation in the first days is explained by the refusal to feed and weak peristalsis, inhibited anesthesia. If the condition does not return to normal within 2 days, contact your doctor. The reason for the delay may be damage to the walls of the rectum.In this case, a second operation will be required.

Proper nutrition and other preventive measures

Intestinal malfunctions can be avoided with preventive measures related to proper nutrition and animal care. For the health of a mustachioed pet:

1. Take care of the quality and balance of the diet. Lack of coarse fibers impairs peristalsis.Add vitamins and bran to food by discussing options with your veterinarian. Specialized food is suitable for cats with chronic diseases.

2. Take up “gardening”. Grow a small plantation of healthy herbs right on the windowsill or purchase a ready-made version in the store.

3. Maintain physical activity. Play together regularly and buy some toys suitable for self-entertainment.

4. Brush the coat regularly. The longer the coat, the more often it will have to be combed out. Also, the accumulation of wool lumps in the stomach can be prevented with special dissolving pastes.

5. Change your bowl of water regularly. The animal should not suffer from dehydration.

6. Treat helminths every quarter.

7. Don’t forget to clean the tray. Change your filler at least 3 times a day.

When buying a new family member, take care of comfortable living conditions in advance. Ask the breeder for personal belongings to help reduce stress during the move.

If you have a prolonged problem with emptying and have associated symptoms, contact your veterinarian right away. Attempts to self-medicate can lead to the death of the animal. Never use questionable folk remedies without waiting for the approval of your doctor, and prevent dangerous actions from your acquaintances. Not all owners know about the dangers of castor oil, so share useful information with your environment.

This article is for informational purposes only. See your veterinarian!

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