Fiber Supplements: When to Take Them & How to Track Them

What is Fiber?

Dietary fiber is the part of plant foods the body cannot fully digest. Soluble fiber, found in oats, beans and psyllium, absorbs water and forms a gel, while insoluble fiber, found in wheat bran and whole grains, adds bulk. Fiber supplements such as psyllium (ispaghula husk) are often used for constipation. Because a fiber supplement forms a gel in the gut, it can change how other medicines and supplements are absorbed, so where you place it in the day matters. It also works best with plenty of fluid and a gradual start.

When to take Fiber: general timing information

• Adding a lot of fiber quickly can cause gas, bloating and cramps. Increase it gradually over a few weeks and drink plenty of fluids. [1]

• NHS guidance for ispaghula husk (Fybogel) is to take it after a meal or snack and not right before bed. [2]

• Ispaghula husk can affect how other medicines, vitamins and supplements are absorbed. The NHS suggests taking them more than an hour apart. [3]

• Medicines that may interact include lithium, carbamazepine, digoxin and diabetes medicines, including insulin. Ask your pharmacist if you take any of these. [3]

How to set a Fiber reminder in Pillzy

1. 1

   Tap + in Pillzy and add your fiber supplement with the serving on the label.

2. 2

   Set Meal Timing to After meal.

3. 3

   Pick a time at least an hour away from your other medicines and vitamins, and not right before bed.

4. 4

   Add a note to drink a full glass of water with it.

5. 5

   Mark each dose taken and log any bloating in the dose notes while you build up slowly.