Fiber Supplements

I'm often asked, "How do I know I'm getting enough fiber?" My answer is: "You should have an easy bowel movement every twenty-four hours. The stools should be well formed and their color should be light brown; preferably about 10 percent will float."

If your stools don’t fit that profile, start using a good fiber supplement. Fiber supplements are usually made from psyllium husks and are often sold as "natural vegetable laxatives" under store-brand names. Mix about one or two heaping teaspoonfuls or a full tablespoon with water, and drink it about thirty minutes before a  meal.

An ideal fiber supplement has the following ingredients: psyllium husks, apple fiber, acacia gum, guar gum, oat bran, and a few ingredients to improve taste and dissolvability. However, it is acceptable to use a fiber supplement that contains only psyllium husks. Any supplement should provide from 3 to 4 grams of fiber per tablespoon.

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