Metamucil

One of the many varieties of Metamucil

Metamucil is a bulk-producing laxative and fiber supplement. The Metamucil brand has existed since 1934, and was owned by G.D. Searle & Company until 1985 when Procter & Gamble acquired the brand. The active ingredient is psyllium seed husks. It may also reduce cholesterol when taken daily.^[1] Metamucil is sold in powdered drink mixes, capsules, and wafers. Metamucil has been available in different flavors, such as Orange, Berry, and Pink Lemonade. A sugar-free version has also been available.

Health Benefits

Fiber supplements such as Metamucil supplement the dietary fiber provided by food sources.^[2]

Potential Side Effects

Since Psyllium husk-containing products, such as Metamucil, are sometimes used as a source of dietary fiber, the intake of dietary fiber could hinder the absorption of vitamins, minerals, and proteins.^[3] Dietary fiber helps the gastrointestinal tract absorb excess water and remove food wastes, but an excessively high intake of dietary fiber will also negatively affect the absorption process in the intestinal tract. Taking a fiber supplement can decrease the absorption of minerals by decreasing the transit time, lowering the concentration of minerals by accumulating more fecal matter, and can also cause the minerals to become trapped in the feces, which would leave the body. This could affect individuals who may not be meeting, or could be just attaining, their body's mineral and nutrient requirements. ^[4]

References

1. ^ Mayo Clinic webpage on cholesterol-lowering supplements Retrieved March 1, 2007.
2. ^ Cho SS, Dreher ML (2001). Handbook of Dietary Fiber. 
3. ^ Marlett JA, McBurney MI, Slavin JL (July 2002). "Position of the American Dietetic Association: health implications of dietary fiber". Journal of the American Dietetic Association 102 (7): 993–1000. doi:10.1016/S0002-8223(02)90228-2. PMID 12146567. 
4. ^ Kies C (1983). "Purified Psyllium Seed Fiber, Human Gastrointestinal Tract Function, and Nutritional status of Humans". Unconventional Sources of Dietary Fiber. ACS Symposium Series 214: 61–70. doi:10.1021/bk-1983-0214.ch005. ISBN 0-8412-0768-2. 

External links

• Official Metamucil website
• Phloe Bowel Health

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