Fiber Supplements Products
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Fiber
The term "dietary fiber" refers to the components of plant cell wall and non-nutritive residues. Fiber is divided into two general categories water soluble and water insoluble. Insoluble fiber, such as wheat bran, is a good laxative but lacks some of the beneficial, effects noted with the soluble fibers. In addition to the well-known use of dietary fiber as a bulk-forming laxative, the principal use of supplemental dietary fiber is in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and other functional disturbances of the colon, elevated cholesterol levels, and obesity. For these purposes, soluble fiber is best. Examples of soluble fiber sources are psyllium, guar gum, glucomannan, gum karaya, and pectin. These fiber sources are categorized together because of their similar effects and actions.
Fiber supplements are available in capsule, tablet, and powder form. Most often, because of the high dosage required, fiber supplements come in powder form to mix in water or juice. Brand names available include Metamucil, Konsyl, and Perdiem Fiber Therapy.
When using dietary fiber supplements, it is best to start out with a small dosage and increase gradually so that the intestines become used to the increased fiber intake; too rapid an increase can produce flatulence and abdominal discomfort. The recommended dosage as a laxative is generally 5 g at bedtime. For other purposes, it is generally recommended the dosage be started at 1 or 2 g before meals and at bedtime, gradually increasing the dosage to 5 g before meals and at bedtime.
Fiber - Constipation and hemorrhoids
Fiber has long been used in the treatment of constipation. Dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber such as psyllium, increases stool weight as a result of its water-holding properties and is classified as a bulk-forming laxative. Of all types of laxatives, bulk-forming fiber is generally regarded as the most natural and the best. A larger, bulkier stool passes through the colon more easily, requiring less pressure to expel and subsequently less straining. As a result of less straining, bulk-forming laxatives are often recommended in the treatment of hemorrhoids. Bulk-forming laxatives generally help produce a bowel movement within twelve to twenty-four hours.
Fiber - Diabetes
Double-blind studies have shown that supplementing the diet with soluble fiber before or with meals reduces after-meal increases in blood sugar levels. It accomplishes this effect largely by delaying the emptying of the stomach and thereby leading to a more gradual absorption of dietary sugar, as well as by increasing the tissues' sensitivity to insulin. The improvements noted in blood sugar levels in diabetics can be quite significant. For example, in one study, 123 non-insulin-dependent diabetics were given either 5 g of psyllium seed husk powder three times daily before meals or placebo for twelve weeks. In the patients receiving the psyllium there was a significant drop in fasting blood sugar levels from an initial level of 195 mg/dl down to 136 mg/dl. Diabetics must be aware, however, that many fiber supplements are loaded with sugar and thus must be avoided.
Fiber - High cholesterol and triglycerides
The binding of bile acids and cholesterol to soluble fiber such as psyllium, pectin, and guar gum is very helpful in reducing blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Loss of cholesterol and bile salts through the feces is the major pathway for elimination of these compounds from the body. Dietary fiber also decreases cholesterol biosynthesis and increases the conversion of cholesterol to the bile acids. The typical reductions in total cholesterol levels with the more popular soluble fibers are as follows:
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| Guar gum | -15g | 10% |
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| Pectin | 6-10g | 5% |
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| Psyllium | 10-20g | 10-20% |
Fiber - Irritable bowel syndrome
The treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by increasing the intake of dietary fiber has a long history. The most effective fiber supplements are the soluble forms because of their ability to improve the function and tone of the large intestine (colon).
Fiber - Weight loss
When taken with water before meats, soluble fiber binds to the water in the stomach to form a gelatinous mass that makes an individual feel full. As a result, he or she will be less likely to overeat. Fiber supplements have also been shown to reduce the number of calories absorbed by the intestines. In some of the clinical studies demonstrating weight loss, fiber supplements were shown to reduce the number of calories absorbed by 30 to 180 per day. Over the course of a year, this could result in a reduction of 3 to 18 pounds.
The most impressive results in weight loss studies have been achieved with guar gum, a soluble fiber obtained from the Indian cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonolobra). In several double-blind studies, 10 g of guar gum immediately before lunch and dinner promoted an average weight loss of 1 pound per week.
Fiber Side Effects
Since soluble fiber is fermented by intestinal bacteria, a great deal of gas can be produced in individuals not used to a high fiber intake, leading to flatulence and abdominal discomfort. Allergic reactions to psyllium and other fiber sources have been reported.
Because taking any bulk-forming laxative may decrease the absorption of any drug, most experts recommend taking any drug at least three hours before or after taking a bulk-forming laxative.
People with any disorder of the esophagus should not take any fiber supplement in a pill form, as the pill may expand in the esophagus and lead to obstruction.
Since fiber reduces the absorption of most minerals, be sure to take mineral supplements at least forty-five minutes before or after taking a fiber supplement.
Drink at least 8 ounces of water per dosage when taking any bulk-forming laxative.If you have not had a bowel movement in seven days or are experiencing any abdominal pain, consult a physician before taking any bulk-forming laxative.If you have rectal bleeding after using any bulk-forming laxative, consult a physician.
Pregnant/breast-feeding women - Fiber supplements are generally regarded as safe during pregnancy and lactation.
Children - Suitable for children at one-half the adult dosage.
Seniors - No special precautions are known.
Fiber Supplements Manufacturers
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