Soluble Fiber Supplements
Soluble fiber supplements may be beneficial
for anyone with irritable bowel syndrome, although some common sense precautions
are advisable.
- First, I recommend consulting a dietitian
before using them.
- Second, supplements should not be used
as the main source of soluble fiber in your diet: as the name suggests
they should "supplement" not replace, the dietary fiber in
your daily meals.
- Third, when choosing a particular brand
of fiber supplements it may be best to choose a plain, unflavored supplement
instead of a citric acid variety. Also, you should know that sugar-free
versions may contain artificial sweeteners, which can trigger IBS attacks.
- Fourth, follow manufacturer's instructions
carefully and drink a large glass of water with each dose, and throughout
the day as well.
- Fifth, not everyone with irritable bowel
disease benefits from fiber supplements. As a rough guide, if you don't
experience a definite improvement in symptoms within about 7 days (in
the case of diarrhea) or 14 days (in the case of constipation) when
using close to the maximum dosage, then supplements are unlikely to
work. Alternatively, it may suggest that you are not suffering from
IBS. In any event, please talk to your doctor or dietitian.
IBS and Fiber: Summary
1. Include regular amounts of soluble fiber-rich
foods in your diet.
2. If tolerable, include regular amounts of healthy whole grain or whole
foods containing insoluble fiber (like fruits and veggies), but take precautions.
Don't eat insoluble fiber alone. Don't eat it on an empty stomach. Always
eat it with a larger quantity of soluble fiber. The best way to prepare
insoluble fiber foods like vegetables, nuts and fruits is to peel, chop,
seed, dice, before cooking and if necessary blend/puree before eating.
3. Drink plenty of water (about 12 glasses of water, a day) and take regular
exercise.
4. Consult your doctor or dietitian about soluble fiber supplements.
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Diet Changes That Benefit IBS
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Please Note: The above advice about
Irritable Bowel diet and eating habits is offered for general educational
purposes only. If you suffer from IBS, please consult your physician for
specific personal dietary advice.
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