3. Take a look at a fiber supplement.
Fiber supplements can help with constipation and are widely accessible. They function by giving your feces more volume or heft. This facilitates the movement of poop through the intestines and out of the body.
Look for an over-the-counter supplement that has 6 to 9 grams of fiber each day. Several popular fiber supplements are:
- psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl)
- methylcellulose (Citrucel)
- calcium polycarbophil (FiberCon)
Choose one that has been dissolved in water, such as psyllium, if possible (Metamucil). The water component is crucial: Dietary fiber absorbs water, causing your stool to become more bulky and easier to pass.
Just keep in mind that, even if you choose to take a fiber supplement, maintaining a healthy diet is still important (which should naturally include some natural fiber found in food). You cannot expect your digestive system to function normally by simply adding a tablespoon of Metamucil to a bottle of diet cola.
