How to Choose Fiber Supplements

Introducing fiber supplements into your daily regimen boasts many health benefits including digestion aid, weight control, building muscle and increasing regularity. If you need to add fiber to your diet, here are some guidelines to follow when choosing a supplement.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Fiber supplements
• Dosage requirements
• Physician's recommendation
• Water or other fluids
• Health food store
• Drug store
• Internet access

1. Consult with your doctor before taking fiber supplements. Ask if using them will negatively affect any medications you are taking or existing health concerns.
2. Choose the right fiber supplement for you by reviewing the ingredients, uses and side effects of the various products.
3. Weigh the pros and cons of adding fiber supplements to your diet. Too much fiber can result in intestinal gas, bloating and cramps.
4. Read the label and calculate the proper dosage of fiber supplements before you start taking them.
5. Decide if you want to take a powder, oils, capsules or tablets.
6. Visit your local health food store to get a first hand look at the various fiber supplements available. Take advantage of the employees' expertise if you have questions about any of the products.
7. Consult your physician about adjusting your dosage if you experience diarrhea, loose bowels or stomach pain.
8. Purchase your fiber supplements over the Internet, at a health food store or your local drugstore.

Tips & Warnings

• Increase the amount of fiber slowly to allow your body to adapt.
• Consult your doctor if you experience a fluctuation in your weight. You may have to adjust your dosage.
• Increase your fluid intake, especially water, when you take fiber supplements.