While we await the arrival of spring, we can still consume products that make us feel like we’re in spring. One such product is Metamucil, a popular dietary supplement among those who follow the anti-inflammatory diet. Is it really worth the money? Let’s take a closer look.
Key Features
According to the manufacturer, Metamucil is a “probiotic-rich” product that can “help maintain healthy intestinal flora.” The manufacturer goes on to state that Metamucil:
- Is “prebiotic,” which means it provides food for good bacteria.
- Is “probiotic,” which means it promotes the growth of good bacteria in your gut.
- Is “biotic,” which means it contributes to both the nutrition and health of the intestinal tract.
- Is natural and effective.
When compared to other popular fiber supplements such as Metafolin or Milk-Bassina, Metamucil’s key ingredient, Polyphosphate, has a much more distinctive appearance. Specifically, Polyphosphate has a granular texture that is easy to locate when sprinkled on foods or drinks. This gives it a better chance of being digested and utilized by your body compared to other products.
Dosage and Effective Dose
The recommended dose of Metamucil is one capsule, taken two times daily, with meals. In general, the preferred dose of Polyphosphate is around 30mg per day. Too little and you won’t see any effect; too much and it won’t do any good. The suggested retail price for a bottle of Metamucil is roughly $14.95. That’s a lot of money for a fiber supplement, but if you’re looking for an effective and natural option that can help improve gut health, you may be better off investing in Metamucil.
The Science
According to the manufacturer, certain strains of bacteria, when present in the intestine, can help improve overall digestive function. More specifically, they can help break down fiber (which is good for your gut) and fight inflammation (which is good for your overall health). Polyphosphate is a form of vitamin C that helps promote both good bacteria and the production of necessary enzymes by these bacteria. In addition to Polyphosphate and vitamin C, Metamucil contains ferulic acid, which the manufacturer states is an “important substance” that can “prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.” While ferulic acid is a substance that occurs naturally within the wall of plant cells, it is a derivative of Vitamin C that is more stable and easier for your body to utilize.
Benefits
Like other vitamins and supplements, there are a number of health benefits associated with taking Metamucil. According to the manufacturer, taking Metamucil can “help maintain healthy intestinal flora” and “provide nutrients for the human body.” One of the nutrients provided by Metamucil is vitamin C, which aids in collagen synthesis (in the walls of your stomach and intestines) and is an important substance for the health of your immune system. Collagen synthesis helps maintain the structural integrity of your intestines and stomach wall, while immune function allows you to fight off infections and sickness.
Based on the available evidence, it is reasonable to assume that Metamucil can play a role in preventing certain types of cancer. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, taking Metamucil can reduce certain types of cancer cells by up to 99%. The study’s authors noted that while this may not hold true for all types of cancer, it is an indication that certain types of dietary fiber may play a role in preventing certain types of cancer.
Drawbacks
Even though Metamucil is a fiber and probiotic supplement that can offer health benefits, it isn’t a perfect solution. The chief drawback to Metamucil is its cost. It’s more expensive than most other fiber supplements on the market, which makes it less accessible for those on a budget. In addition, Metamucil has only been shown in the research to be effective in preventing certain types of cancer. While it may play a role in preventing some types of cancer, it may not be as effective in preventing others. In terms of effectiveness, it depends on what strains of bacteria we’re talking about. Different bacterial strains have different effects, and some may even have negative effects when consumed in excess.
Side Effects
Like any dietary supplement, there are potential side effects associated with taking Metamucil. The most common side effect is diarrhea. While this isn’t dangerous, it can be inconvenient and decrease the effectiveness of the supplement. Another side effect is flatulence. Taking more than the recommended dose of Metamucil can increase the likelihood of experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort, including stomach rumblings and increased bowel movements. Aside from these side effects, the most common negative reaction to Metamucil is an allergic reaction. In rare instances, these allergic reactions can be dangerous and even fatal. The most common symptoms of an allergic reaction are rash, itching, and hives. In the event of anaphylaxis, which is a more severe allergic reaction, the symptoms can include difficulty breathing, swelling in the mouth, and throat irritation.
In general, these side effects are rare and mild, but it’s still good to know what they are and what to look out for. If you experience any type of allergic reaction, discontinue the use of Metamucil and contact your personal physician right away.
Summary
At the end of the day, is Metamucil really worth the money? It’s all about the individual person and what they want out of life. If you follow a low-allergy diet and are looking to improve your gut health, Metamucil may be a good option. However, if you’re on a tight budget or are just looking for an all-natural option that’s easy to find, you may be better off choosing some other fiber supplement. Always use proper nutrition and exercise when trying to improve your health.