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).
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.
Bowel obstruction. A bowel obstruction (blockage) is a serious side effect that can occur with Metamucil. This is especially true if you don't follow proper instructions while using it. Metamucil needs water to work, so not drinking enough water with your dose can lead to a blockage.
Mix one dose of Metamucil powder with at least 8 ounces of water. It should produce a bowel movement between 12 to 72 hours. If your constipation persists beyond seven days, consult your healthcare provider because it may be a sign of a more serious condition.
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.
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.
This medication is used to treat constipation. It increases the bulk in your stool, an effect that helps to cause movement of the intestines. It also works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making the stool softer and easier to pass.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The bottom line. Increasing your intake of fiber using a soluble fiber supplement like Metamucil may help reduce hunger and appetite to promote weight loss.
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.
Too much fiber in the diet can cause bloating, gas, and constipation. A person can relieve this discomfort by increasing their fluid intake, exercising, and making dietary changes. These uncomfortable side effects of excessive fiber can occur when someone eats more than 70 grams (g) of fiber a day.
The softer the bulk, the easier it passes through the GI tract. Problems arise, however, when there is too much fiber and not enough water. This lack of water can lead to hard bulky stools and the digestive problems that come with them.
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.
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.
Adults 12 years and older: 1 rounded TABLESPOON in 8 oz of liquid 3 times daily for daily fiber supplement. 1 rounded TABLESPOON in 8 oz of liquid 3 times daily for cholesterol lowering to promote heart health.
"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 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.
For individuals with constipation-predominant IBS, a soluble fiber supplement (Metamucil or others containing psyllium) can be helpful.
Improving gut health
Keeping the bowels moving regularly can improve gut health and relieve the symptoms of digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and diverticulosis. The soluble fiber in Benefiber and Metamucil can feed the good bacteria in the intestines.
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.