as advised i went out and bought some metamucil. i haven't taken it yet. i would just liek to know what to expect. does this stuff work liek a laxative? will i be sprinting to the bathroom 10 minutes after i take it? or is it just like next time i have the natrual urge my system will get cleared?

in other words, would it be best to take when i know im just going to be sitting around for a couple hours after?
instead of taking it when im going out or about to go to bed?

[This message has been edited by blank65 (edited 07-15-2002).]

Metamucil is a bowel regulator, a stool forming agent. I know it says on the bottle---"natrual fiber laxative"--- but several years ago it said "Bowel Regulator". It is a water soluble natural fiber supplement, it's safe to take daily but drink enough water like it says on the container. If you don't it will constipate you. It works for diarrhea as well as it does for constipation.

I suggest you start off with one dose daily because it is a natural and is broken down by your intestinal bacteria and it ferments ---producing some gas but as your GI tract gets use to it---the gas will go away. after a few days increase the dose until you get a gentle bowel movement w/o straining. It will make you regular. I have used psyllium daily for 18 years.

God Bless---Harry

Hi, Harry's right. The word "laxative" on Metamucil is misleading. I use it for extra fiber to control diarrhea. It doesn't immediately cause you to go the bathroom - at least the Metamucil wafers don't. I can eat a couple packages during the day, and then not "go" until next a.m. or afternoon. You will notice an increase in gas at first, but it's something your body will get used to.

Let us know how you do with it.

Katie G

Metamucil is just a fiber supplement and it make you have BMs regularly.

I have a problem whereby the poop (Have to get graphic, sorry), moves down into the anus and sits there; I take mag supplements to give that area the urge to move (little that it may be); my goal is not to take magnesium supplements; will metamucil provide that urge or push to get the poop out of the anus?

Metamucil is a water soluble fiber supplement -- your system needs fiber to produce BMs. Without fiber your Gastro system will NOT work. Most people don't get enough fiber in their diet daily because they don't know what it is???

All Meat including seafood and Dairy products contain NO fiber. Like your Mom use to say eat fruits and veggies-- they're good for you --all contain fiber to some degree--some more than others.

Harry

[This message has been edited by Harry (edited 08-09-2002).]