Increasing fiber intake can reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) if taken in conjunction with a healthy diet. However, a fiber supplement should not be taken as a replacement for a high-fiber diet. If you have IBS, consult your doctor before beginning to take these supplements.
Fiber supplements are available in powder or capsule form. Reliable sources show that they may be useful for people who are having difficulty obtaining adequate fiber from their diet.
These supplements are generally recommended for patients with IBS who have problems obtaining enough fiber in their diet. They should be introduced slowly.
Some of the most popular soluble fiber capsules are made from psyllium. It is a moderately fermentable fiber that helps to reduce symptoms of IBS. It is a natural, vegan, and non-GMO fiber supplement.
To know more about fiber supplements for irritable bowel syndrome, continue reading.
What Is Fiber?
Dietary fiber, also known as roughage, is a type of carbohydrate that the human body cannot digest. While our body breaks down the most carbohydrate into glucose, fiber stays the same. Fiber plays a key role in keeping your digestive system healthy.
There are two main types of fiber. These are soluble and insoluble. Soluble fibers are found in fruits, vegetables, and legumes. They help trap fats and sugars and then dissolve in your digestive system to form a gel-like substance. They help soften your stools and also help control blood sugar levels. On the other hand, insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in water.
Increasing your fiber intake can be helpful in maintaining healthy colon function. In order to make sure you’re getting the right amount of fiber, you need to eat foods like nuts, fruits, legumes, and whole grains.
Where Is Fiber Found?
Fiber is found in many foods, such as legumes, nuts, and whole grains. It helps keep your digestive system functioning properly and can reduce the risk of colon cancer. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Fiber is a complex carbohydrate that you can find in many plant foods. Foods high in fiber also contain phytonutrients that may help prevent certain diseases.
You can find it in fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and whole grains. In general, foods with at least 7g of fiber per serve are a good source. The best way to get enough fiber is to eat a variety of foods throughout the day.
You may need to take a fiber supplement if you are having trouble achieving adequate fiber intake from food. Foods high in soluble fiber include apples, citrus fruits, and oats. Foods high in insoluble fiber include green beans, potatoes, wheat bran, and nuts.
The Benefits of Fiber
Throughout decades of research, scientists have identified a number of benefits of fiber. These include helping to metabolize antioxidants, improving digestive health, and reducing the risk of heart and circulatory disease. Moreover, fiber may be able to protect against diseases associated with obesity.
Soluble fiber improves digestion, bowel health, blood sugar control, and aid constipation. Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, increases stool bulk and slows the entry of glucose into the bloodstream.
Dietary fiber intake could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. It found that fiber can support the function of the immune system. It may help to control inflammation and may even protect against bowel cancer.
Increasing your intake of fiber can help to lower your risk for diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It also has a positive impact on digestive health, blood pressure, and weight loss.
Dietary fiber also helps to lower cholesterol levels. In addition, it helps maintain a healthy microbiome in your gut. Fiber also helps to prevent bowel infections.
Use of Fiber Supplements for IBS Treatment
Currently, there is no conclusive evidence for the use of fiber supplements in IBS, but some studies suggest that they may be helpful. The use of fiber supplements can be beneficial if you can’t eat fiber-rich food, but they can also cause some side effects, such as gas and diarrhea.
However, it is important to consult a doctor or dietitian before starting a fiber supplement. There are many factors to consider when selecting a fiber supplement, so it’s important to find one that’s right for you.
Soluble fiber supplementation may be beneficial for reducing GI symptoms in IBS-C. Soluble fibers, such as oats and beans, contain gel-forming properties that may help to soften stools and minimize diarrhea episodes.
Fiber Supplement Type for IBS
Depending on your individual preferences, there are many different fiber supplements available to choose from. You may want to consider the following options.
• Psyllium
• Wheat Bran
• Oats/Oat Bran
• Flaxseeds
• Wheat Dextrin
• Inulin
• Methylcellulose Resistant Starch
Are Fiber Supplements Necessary For IBS Management?
Depending on your IBS, you may or may not need fiber supplements. Whether you are using them or not, you will need to speak with a doctor or dietitian to find out the best solution for you.
Many doctors suggest high-fiber diets to help with IBS symptoms. However, this type of diet can cause gas and bloat. If you are experiencing diarrhea, you will need to talk with a doctor about this.
You can also find fiber supplements over the counter. It is best to start with a small dosage and gradually increase it to meet your body’s needs. The side effects of fiber supplements subside over time as your body adjusts.
Adding fiber to your diet is important but may not be as beneficial as eating whole foods. It is best to add fiber to each meal or snack rather than trying to eat a large amount of fiber at one time.