We all forget about the 4th “macro” — FIBER! And many of us do not get the required 28-35g of fiber in our diet daily.
Supplemental fiber helps keep our GI system clean, moving regularly, heals and prevents hemorrhoids, helps to manage cholesterol and sugars and serves as a great prebiotic to feed our healthy gut probiotics!
However, if you ramp up your supplemental fiber too fast, you may notice an increase in gas and bloating which can seriously deter you from ever taking fiber supplements or increasing dietary fiber ever again!
After you have spoken to your PCP and determine you are a good candidate to increase your fiber, be sure to increase gradually. This will prevent gas and bloating and allow your gut to get used to extra fiber.
If using a supplemental fiber such as Metamucil, try 1 tsp for a few days, then increase to 2 tsp and gradually until you are at the full dose. Be sure to take it in with a full glass of water as well to help the fiber move through your gut properly!
Cool Creek Family Health is a direct primary care clinic. Contact us today to learn how we put you in the driver’s seat of your healthcare and can make you love your primary care experience again!
