Patient was educated on Metamucil and its mechanism of action as follows:
- Metamucil when taken, is not digested in the stomach and is passed into the intestines.
- In the intestines, Metamucil absorbs water and swells to form bulky stool.
- More fluid in the stool makes the stool soft.
- The soft and bulky stool formed in the intestines will induce stimulation of the intestines to move and help to mobilize the contents of the intestines at a faster pace.
- The bulk in the stool with retained fluid makes it easy to pass the stool.
- Metamucil is considerably slow to act in comparison with other varieties of laxatives. Allow 1 to 3 days before having a bowel movement, after taking Metamucil.
- Metamucil is a very rich source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber forms a gel and traps sugars, as the gel moves through the intestines. Trapped sugars are slowly released, which slows down their absorption into the blood. This might lower the blood sugars and lead to hypoglycemia. Soluble fiber also reduces the absorption of cholesterol into the blood stream and lowers the levels of bad cholesterol in blood, the LDL.
- The insoluble fiber in Metamucil with retained fluid forms the bulk in the intestines and makes it easy to pass the stool.
- Some forms of Metamucil have added sugar to them. Individuals on calorie limitations must keep a close watch, while reading the label, to account for such hidden calories. This added sugar in these products can lead to poor blood sugar control in diabetic individuals. Choice of sugar free versions of Metamucil are available.
