Whether you’re looking for ways to improve your cholesterol management, blood sugar levels, or digestive health, fiber supplements can help. We sat down with Dr. Fibre, Sur’s in-house expert on fiber supplements to discuss everything you need to know about fiber supplements!

 

What Are Fiber Supplements?

Fiber supplements are products that contain isolated or concentrated fiber, which is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. They make it easier for you to increase your fiber intake. 

 

How Do Fiber Supplements Work?

Fiber supplements work by adding bulk to your stool and promoting regular bowel movements. They absorb water in the digestive tract, forming a gel-like substance that increases the volume and weight of the stool. This increased bulk in the stool stretches the intestinal muscles, stimulating them and slowing down digestion. 

By slowing down the digestion process, these supplements can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote healthy gut bacteria.

 

What Are Some Benefits of Taking Fiber Supplements Regularly?

Fiber supplements can be rich in beta glucans, which have many health benefits. A few of the health benefits of beta glucan include regular bowel movements, help with managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and even boost the immune system.

Many fiber supplements can help soften the stool while increasing bulk, making it easier to pass and prevent constipation. Meanwhile, soluble fiber can help lower ‘bad’ cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol in the gut and prevent its absorption into the bloodstream. 

Fiber can also act as a prebiotic, nourishing the helpful, immune-boosting bacteria in your gut, which can help prevent allergic reaction and reduce inflammation.

 

Are There Any Risks Associated With Taking Fiber Supplements?

A common side effect of any fiber supplement includes bloating, gas, and sometimes cramps. This is because your digestive system isn’t used to processing this much fiber, and can sometimes result in constipation or diarrhea.

Increasing your water intake can help relieve or prevent these side effects. Often, these symptoms are caused by absorption issues, and drinking more water each day along with the supplements can help with absorption. If you have a history of digestive disease such as Crohn’s Disease or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, please consult with a licensed medical healthcare provider before introducing any fiber supplement into your daily routine.

Additionally, taking the supplement in powder form allows you to self-regulate how much fiber you take. It can be more difficult to start slow with your fiber intake when you take a capsule, whereas with powder you can start with one scoop per day and gradually build to two scoops. This gives your digestive system time to adjust to this change in your diet.

 

What Is Your Top Choice for Fiber Supplements?

Nutrim oat beta glucan is one of the top plant-based supplements for weight loss, cholesterol and blood sugar management, and immune system support. This fiber supplement comes in an easy-to-mix, flavorless powder that can be added to anything–even water. You can add it to smoothies, juice, coffee, soups, baked goods, and more, to easily increase your daily dietary fiber intake.

We recommend starting with two scoops of the powder per day and mixing it with your food or drink of choice to help support fiber absorption. Over time, you can gradually increase to two scoops twice per day. 

If you’re looking for easy, tasty ways to boost your daily fiber intake and reap the benefits of beta glucans, you can shop for Nutrim, a gentle fiber, from Sur today!