Feb 28 2010
Intake of Soluble Fiber Supplements Recommended for Constipation and Hemorrhoids
People who are suffering from constipation, diarrhea, and hemorrhoids may have the same causes on their problems. It could be due to poor diet and inadequate intake of fibers which trigger these conditions. Soluble and insoluble fibers are needed by the body to help the digestive and excretory system function properly. Dietary fibers are commonly found in vegetables and fruits. However, due to busy lifestyle and food preferences, the intake of these fibers are not enough.
One of the benefits of including soluble fibers in your diet is the prevention and controlling of hemorrhoid symptoms. The fibers will help soften stool so that they pass easily. It decreases the pressure and straining in the anal area. A person who is constipated may just aggravate the hemorrhoid which may lead to hemorrhoid bleeding and pain. Once fiber is introduced, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome is avoided.
Soluble fibers will also clean the gastro-intestinal tract. Other studies show that soluble fibers help lower LDL blood cholesterol levels. It helps reduce the risk of heart disease and minimize colon cancer risks. Adequate intake of soluble fiber will help prevent the formation of free radicals. It slows down the absorption of fats and carbohydrates into the bloodstream. It improves glycemic control and lowers the requirements for insulin.
There are different soluble fiber supplements available. It can be in the form of soluble fiber powder which is mixed with water or in caplet form like chewable tablets or ordinary pills. Supplements should be introduced if the soluble fiber is not enough in your daily food intake. Your nutritionist can help decide what type of soluble fiber supplements you need. They can also advise on the proper dosage to achieve the maximum benefit of soluble fibers.
The recommended dosage of soluble fiber in powder form is 1/2 – 1 level teaspoon twice a day. You can increase the dosage after two or three weeks to 2-4 tablespoons twice a day. The total daily intake of this supplement should be within 12 to 25 grams per day. For the treatment of diarrhea, lower dosage is recommended while for constipation, dosage can be increased up to 30 grams per day.
If you opt to take the pills, start with at least 2 pills twice daily or up to six times per day. Please take note that manufacturers have a recommended dosage for their products. Avoid taking too much of these supplements as they may cause side effects. For example, a chewable tablet may contain sorbitol which can cause cramps, bloating, and diarrhea. Manufacturers have different dose per pill or in powder form. It is still best to base your intake on the weight rather than on the volume of the soluble fiber supplement.
Based on studies, Americans only eats 10 to 15 grams of fiber a day while the Chinese averages 33 grams of fiber intake per day. The USDA recommends 25 to 35 grams of fiber intake for adults. The soluble fiber accounts for at least 1/3 to 1/2 of the recommended daily intake. So taking supplements will help reach the daily requirements for fiber. Some of the products available in pharmacies and drug stores are Heather’s Tummy Fiber, Equalactin, Fibersure, FiberChoice, Citrucel, Benefiber, Konsyl, Fybogel, Metamucil, and Fibercon.
[...] doctors may suggest that you start with the simple alternatives such as increasing the amount of fiber in your diet and getting more exercise. But for more advanced stages, you have to consider treatments such as [...]
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[...] Insoluble fiber is needed in the prevention of hemorrhoids and some types of health issues like colon and rectal cancers. This form of fiber is mostly found in wheat, some types of vegetables and in other whole grain products. Meanwhile, vegetables rich in insoluble fiber include carrots, peas and broccoli. The skins of fruits can also contain insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber, on the other hand, shows great potential in reducing levels of cholesterol in the blood and lessening the rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream. This form of fiber can be found in dried peas, lentils, beans, barley, oat bran, and in other fruits and vegetables. [...]