Metamucil Review

What You Should Know

Metamucil, a psyllium based product, is the #1 doctor recommended brand of dietary fiber supplement. Metamucil is designed to work with a balanced diet to lower cholesterol and contribute to good heart health. It is also said to regulate the bodyís digestive system, a move which might lead to weight loss.

List of Ingredients

Psyllium husk, Maltodextrin, Artificial flavor, Citrus acid, Malic acid, Acesulfame potassium, Aspartame.

Product Features

Metamucil is a dietary fiber product made from Psyllium, an herb native to Asia, North Africa and the Mediterranean regions. Psyllium is used in traditional medicine as a laxative and as a supplement to add fiber to often deficient diets. Fiber, such as that found in Metamucil, is considered a necessary component to the bodyís digestive function. Because many of todayís low carbohydrate diets are low in fiber rich bread and grain products, it is often necessary to take a fiber supplement to meet the nutritional minimums set up by health experts. Some people believe that adding additional bulk fiber to the diet through a product like Metamucil will increase the bodyís rate of waste elimination and possibly increase weight loss, although there is no proof that this is the case. Metamucil is available in several different forms, as a powder in a variety of flavors to mix with liquid, capsules, or wafers. It is suggested that each dose of Metamucil be taken with at least eight ounces of water to prevent possible side effects. Metamucil is available at chain drug stores and grocery stores as well as being sold over the internet.

Advantages

• Metamucil comes in several forms such as powder, capsules, and wafers so it is able to fit many users needs and lifestyles.
• The fiber in Metamucil may aid in digestion and improve overall physical well being.

Disadvantages

• Using excess fiber as a laxative to increase weight loss may have long term negative effects on health.
• There is no evidence that using bulk fiber products such as Metamucil has any effect on weight loss.
• Some people who use bulk fiber additives such as Metamucil report feeling bloated and experiencing excess gas.

Conclusion

Some dieters have resorted to dangerous methods such as laxatives and diuretics to increase their weight loss with negative consequences to their overall health. A product such as Metamucil should be added tot eh diet only as a way of promoting good health by meeting necessary nutrition guidelines. As there is no evidence that fiber supplements have any effect on fat burning or the reduction of appetite the serious, and smart, dieter should look for a supplement especially designed to accomplish those goals and proven to be safe while doing so.