Soluble
Fiber SupplementsSoluble 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: Summary1. 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. Back
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Diet Changes That Benefit IBS
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for Special Conditions 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. Sources
We gratefully acknowledge the use of material from HelpForIBS.
Copyright: Heather Van Vorous, Eating for IBS and the First Year IBS. |