Does insoluble fiber help in constipation ?
The last thing you want to do if you have constipation or hemorrhoids is to take a fiber supplement. In fact, that could even make the problem worse, especially soluble fiber. Insoluble fiber doesn’t absorb water nor expand, or only minimally. Soluble fiber does absorb water and can expand significantly in the colon. If you consume a large quantity, like a glassful of psyllium seed (Metamucil without the orange food coloring) with water, then you’ll more than likely be plugged up and good. This doesn’t mean you should avoid fiber, as it does provide bulk for your digestion and can keep things moving. But you should obtain it from foods such as fresh produce, legumes, and whole grains – not fiber supplements. You might try the following first. Drink more water or other fluids and cut back on diuretics like coffee, tea, or other caffeinated beverages. Have some fluids with your meal, if you don’t already. Be sure to consume enough fat – consuming very low fat could also slow digestion. A
