Which Is Better, Capsules, Tablets, or Powders? It doesn't really matter which form the fiber comes in. Some people like powders, others are put off by them. The important thing to know is how many grams of fiber are in each form.
Soluble fiber found in beans, oats, flaxseed and oat bran may help lower total blood cholesterol levels by lowering low-density lipoprotein, or "bad," cholesterol levels. Studies also have shown that high-fiber foods may have other heart-health benefits, such as reducing blood pressure and inflammation.
Psyllium husk (Metamucil and Konsyl) is rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber. Generally, fiber supplements with mainly insoluble fiber may be a better option for constipation. Before taking a fiber supplement, ask your health care provider or pharmacist to review your medications.
The husks or hulls are what you need to help with constipation — which means that either the powder or the hulls are the most suitable options. The powder is simply the hulls ground more finely. Some people prefer the finer texture, but you can rest assured that both the powder and hulls will work equally well.
Five Metamucil Capsules are approximately equivalent to one serving of Metamucil Powder. Depending on the benefits one wants to get from the product, one can use a different number of Capsules. For adding some dietary fibre to the diet, one can take as little as 2 Capsules per serving.
Metamucil is best known for its psyllium husk powders. You can also take Metamucil capsules and thins to get psyllium husk fiber into your diet. If you want to add psyllium husk into your morning or nighttime routine, powders may be the route for you.
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.
You should always take psyllium with a full 8 oz. glass of water, and you should drink at least 6 to 8 full glasses of water throughout the day to avoid constipation. Taking psyllium supplements without adequate liquids may cause it to swell, and, in extreme cases, cause choking.
People with esophageal stricture (narrowing of the esophagus) or any other narrowing or obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract should not take psyllium. A potential side effect from any fiber product is gas and bloating. People with kidney disease should talk to their doctor before taking psyllium.
Benefiber and Metamucil are both over-the-counter (OTC) soluble fiber supplements. They work in a very similar way. Both products contain a high concentration of fiber. Fiber makes a person's stools bulkier and softer, which results in more comfortable and frequent bowel movements.
Downsides
Common side effects include abdominal cramps, bloating, and changes in stool consistency. May aggravate hemorrhoids or anal fissures. If the daily recommended amount of fluid is not drunk, then Metamucil could cause severe constipation, especially in people who are already dehydrated.
* Metamucil Capsules: Take 5 capsules 4 times per day before each meal to help lower cholesterol to promote heart health. † Or take 2 to 5 capsules up to 4 times per day to promote digestive health. * Check with your health care professional if you are using Metamucil as part of a cholesterol-lowering program.
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.
To recap, the best time of day to eat your fiber is anytime. Fiber is an essential component of a healthy diet that should be taken with every meal. Eaten in the morning, it helps you feel full throughout the day. Consumed before bedtime, fiber helps you sleep better.
The suggested intake of psyllium husks to treat constipation is 1 teaspoon (approximately 5 grams) three times per day.
Psyllium husks do not contain additives, while psyllium powder capsules often contain small amounts of additives. However, since psyllium powder in capsules is easier to carry around, this may make the powder a better choice for you if you choose to consume the dietary supplement throughout the day.
Consuming psyllium husk in the morning can help to regulate the digestive system and prevent constipation throughout the day. Taking psyllium husk at night may be beneficial for those who want to promote regular bowel movements during the night.
Psyllium or psyllium husk (Metamucil) is an over-the-counter (OTC) fiber supplement that helps with occasional constipation.
The Best Time to Take Fiber
It is often recommended to take a fiber supplement up to twice per day, before a meal, and with a glass of water. This would ensure you're keeping your digestive system balanced throughout the day.
Do not take psyllium for longer than 7 days in a row without a doctor's advice. Using a laxative too often or for too long may cause severe medical problems with your intestines. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.