If the daily recommended amount of fluid is not drunk, then Metamucil could cause severe constipation, especially in people who are already dehydrated. Some products may contain sugar, sodium, or phenylalanine (phenylketonurics should avoid).
What happens if you take too much Metamucil? You will need to remember to drink more fluids during the day when you take Metamucil. If you add too much fiber and bulk without adding enough water, it can make constipation worse.
Psyllium can worsen the constipation if not taken appropriately. It is important to instruct patients who are receiving psyllium ingredients to drink a good amount of fluids to avoid the development of bowel obstruction especially in long-term use of such laxatives.
Taking medicinal fiber, such as psyllium (Metamucil®) or methylcellulose (Citrucel®) with two ounces of water slows the movement in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The fiber absorbs excess fluid like a sponge.
Picco, M.D. There's no evidence that daily use of fiber supplements — such as psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl, others) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) — is harmful. Fiber has a number of health benefits, including normalizing bowel function and preventing constipation.
A: Any time of day is appropriate to take Metamucil fiber as long as an adequate intake of fluids (at least 8 ounces of water or liquid per serving) is consumed. We recommend taking Metamucil between one and three times per day at mealtimes as a convenient way to get the benefits of Metamucil.
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.
Metamucil is a bulk-forming fiber laxative that is used to treat occasional constipation or bowel irregularity. Metamucil may also help lower cholesterol when used together with a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fat.
Start Slow and Increase Your Psyllium Intake
Start with one serving daily of Metamucil at first, then gradually increase to your desired intake. You may experience gas or bloating in the first few days as your body adjusts to the added fiber. This is normal and should go away as your body gets used to the added fiber.
You don't need to poop every day to be regular. It's normal and healthy to have a bowel movement anywhere between three times a week to three times a day. If you're producing soft, well-formed logs that aren't hard to push out, your bowels are probably in good shape.
This is because fermentable fiber is used as food by the bacteria in your gut, resulting in the production of gases in your large intestine. This could cause an increase in gas production in your gut, which might make your symptoms worse.
Assess your daily water intake
Fibre needs water to do its job properly, so not drinking enough fluids can contribute to constipation. Drink 2.2 to three litres of fluid each day. Drink one to two cups of water with high-fibre meals.
Although fibers like psyllium husk pack some powerful benefits for your body, if you suddenly increase your fiber consumption, it takes a while for your digestive system to adjust. Until then, it's very common to experience feelings of gas, bloating and even constipation.
Dietary fiber is also associated with increased bloatedness and abdominal discomfort[22]. Insoluble fiber was reported to worsen the clinical outcome of abdominal pain and constipation[18-20].
Bloating is a common side-effect of Metamucil. For new users, start by taking a small amount of Metamucil and then gradually increase to the recommended dosage to allow your system to adjust and to minimize gas and bloating. If you have tried this and you still experience bloating, talk to your doctor.
Any time of day is a great day to take Metamucil's psyllium husk, so long as you drink plenty of water with it (at least 8 oz). Start with one serving per day, then gradually increase your daily servings each week to reach your health goals.
There is no “correct” dose of Metamucil to take. Everyone may need a different amount per day for desired effect. The trick is to start with a low dose, like 1 scoop per day (or 6 pills per day). Try this for 3 or 4 days in a row and see how things go.
Yes, Metamucil can cause you to have a jelly like stool. Metamucil (psyllium) Psyllium is a bulk-forming fiber laxative. It works by absorbing liquid in the intestines and swelling to create a softer, bulky stool that is easier to pass.
"You should aim to drink between eight and 10 glasses of water or non-caffeinated drinks each day. And if you already are, two to four extra glasses of water a day may help ease constipation," says Dr. Johal.
Metamucil On-the-Go Powder Packets typically produce bowel movements within 12 to 72 hours. Read more commonly asked questions and answers about Metamucil psyllium fiber supplements. As always, it's best to talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions about taking Metamucil for occasional constipation.
I take 1-2 teaspoons of Metamucil in an 8 oz. glass of water with my first meal of the day. In addition to helping with my digestive health, it also helps me feel satisfied until my next meal*. This means no more mid-morning cravings and binging on unhealthy snacks between meals.
For individuals with constipation-predominant IBS, a soluble fiber supplement (Metamucil or others containing psyllium) can be helpful.
Gastrointestinal. Gastrointestinal side effects have included several cases of esophageal impaction and duodenal bezoars in patients receiving a bulk laxative product containing 82% psyllium and 18% senna (commercially available as Perdiem Overnight Relief).
Perform stimulation with your finger every day until you start to have a regular pattern of bowel movements. You can also stimulate bowel movements by using a suppository (glycerin or bisacodyl) or a small enema. Some people find it helpful to drink warm prune juice or fruit nectar.