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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
"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.
Laxatives can be habit-forming if they are taken too much or for too long. If you find Metamucil is not working for you, call your doctor for advice. Also, call your doctor if your symptoms worsen or do not improve.
As with any dietary change, your body needs time to adjust. While you'll likely notice the regularity* benefits of Metamucil sooner, we're confident that after two weeks you'll be feeling lighter and more energetic** and well on your way to making it a part of your daily health routine.
Metamucil is a bulk-forming fiber laxative that is used to treat occasional constipation or bowel irregularity.
You may think that cutting back on food will help “clear out” your colon. That's not the case. Do this: Eating, especially healthy whole foods that contain fiber, helps your body move stool.
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.
Conclusion. 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.
For individuals with constipation-predominant IBS, a soluble fiber supplement (Metamucil or others containing psyllium) can be helpful.
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.
A fecal impaction is a large, hard mass of stool that gets stuck so badly in your colon or rectum that you can't push it out. This problem can be very severe. It can cause grave illness or even death if it's not treated. It's more common among older adults who have bowel problems.
Signs of an impacted bowel
The most obvious sign of an impacted bowel is the inability to pass stool. You may also start to feel abdominal discomfort and bloating.
The key to getting benefits from your psyllium husk supplements is consistency. Try taking it with meals to make it part of your daily routine. One important consideration for when to take your Metamucil: Psyllium is a bulk-forming fiber, and it may affect how medicines work.
Metamucil traps and removes the waste that weighs you down, so you start to feel lighter in two weeks*.
Too much fiber all at once might cause gas, which can trigger your symptoms. If fiber is helping, you may add some fiber supplements such as Metamucil or Citrucel. However occasionally fiber can make your symptoms worse. Then you should try to avoid fiber as much as possible.