Intermittent fasting is currently very popular, and rightly so! This dieting method can be highly successful for shedding pounds. However, if you’re wondering whether taking Metamucil interrupts your fasting period, continue reading. This will help you understand more about this widely-used health beverage and if it’s viewed as breaking the rules of an intermittent fasting regimen.
What is Metamucil?
Metamucil is a fiber supplement that is made from Psyllium husk, which is a natural plant source of soluble fiber. Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber that can help with intermittent fasting by reducing hunger cravings and making you feel complete for extended periods. When used as a supplement, psyllium husk fiber is typically taken before meals.
It works by absorbing water and expanding in the stomach, which helps slow the digestive process and make you feel full. Psyllium husk fiber is beneficial for overall gut health. It helps to promote regularity, reduce bloating, and relieve constipation. You can take Metamucil in powder form, capsule form, or chewable tablet.
How Many Calories Does Metamucil Contain?
Metamucil is typically taken in powder form and mixed with water or juice. One serving of Metamucil (3 grams) contains 11 calories, 2 grams of soluble fiber, and 0 grams of sugar. Soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance, which can help to slow down digestion and regulate blood sugar levels. In addition, soluble fiber has been shown to promote intestinal regularity and reduce cholesterol levels.
Can I Have Metamucil on a Keto Diet?
When following a keto diet, you want to ensure you get enough fiber. This is because fiber helps keep you regular and prevent constipation. Like Metamucil, soluble fiber can help regulate appetite, making you feel fuller for longer. Which eventually helps in maintaining body weight.
A single serving of Metamucil powder has just five calories. It makes it an excellent option for those on a keto diet. Just be sure to check the labels carefully, as some flavors of Metamucil may contain added sugars that could kick you out of ketosis.
Can Metamucil Cause an Insulin Spike?
There is no evidence that Metamucil spikes insulin levels. A study published in the journal “Gastroenterology” in 2001 found that Metamucil had a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
However, it is essential to remember that Metamucil is a soluble fiber source, affecting blood sugar levels. For this reason, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking Metamucil if you have diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes. While Metamucil may help to regulate blood sugar levels for some people, it could also cause blood sugar levels to spike in others. Knowing the potential risks and benefits before using Metamucil to control blood sugar or appetite is essential.
Will Metamucil Cause You to Fall Out of Ketosis?
There is a chance that Metamucil could knock you out of ketosis because it is a fiber supplement. While on a ketogenic diet, it’s important to avoid supplements that contain added fibers as they could disrupt your metabolic state. Consuming too much fiber can also lead to gastrointestinal issues like constipation and diarrhea. You should speak with your doctor before incorporating the supplement into your routine if you’re using Metamucil as part of a weight loss plan.
Is Metamucil Associated with Water Retention?
There is no evidence that Metamucil causes water retention. However, if you are experiencing water retention while taking the supplement, you must consult your doctor to rule out any potential underlying causes.
However, the additional moisture content of the stool can also lead to water retention. In some cases, this may cause bloating or abdominal discomfort. If you are concerned about water retention, you may want to speak to your doctor or pharmacist about alternative fiber supplements.
Will Metamucil Break My Fast?
When you are fasting, your body is detoxified, which means cleansing itself of toxins and waste. To do it is essential to keep your digestive system working correctly. Metamucil is a fiber supplement that can help keep your digestive system regular. However, some believe it can break a fast because it contains calories. However, this is not the case. The calories in Metamucil come from soluble fiber, which the body cannot absorb. As a result, Metamucil will not provide your body with any energy or nutrients and will not break your fast.
Cons of Taking Metamucil Supplement
Metamucil fiber is to improve digestive health. However, there are some potential side effects associated with taking Metamucil. For example, the supplement can cause gas and bloat. In addition, it can interfere with the absorption of other medications. Therefore, speaking with a doctor before taking Metamucil or any other fiber supplement is important.
Additionally, those with allergies should be aware that Metamucil contains psyllium husk derived from plants in the genus Plantago. Therefore, people with plant allergies may experience hypersensitivity reactions after taking Metamucil. While Metamucil can benefit some people, it is important to know the potential risks before taking the supplement.
What About Other Fiber Supplements?
Some other fiber supplements are on the market, and like Metamucil, they come with benefits and risks. Some of the most common fiber supplements include:
Benefiber: This supplement is made from wheat dextrin, a soluble fiber. It is suitable for people trying to increase their daily fiber intake. Unlike Metamucil, Benefiber does not contain any psyllium husk and is, therefore, safe for those with allergies. However, it can cause gas and bloat in some people.
Citrucel: Methylcellulose, an insoluble fiber, serves as the base for this dietary supplement. It does not contain sugar or artificial sweeteners and is safe for those with diabetes or blood sugar issues. However, it can also cause gas and bloating in some people.
Fibercon: Psyllium husk is the main ingredient for this supplement, and it is a soluble fiber. It is suitable for people who are trying to regulate their bowel movements. Like Metamucil, Fibercon can cause gas and bloat in some people.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to take a fiber supplement is a personal one. There are different supplements on the market, and each comes with its own pros and cons.
Final Thoughts
You can use Metamucil supplement in a variety of ways. Before incorporating it into your diet, you must understand how it works and its potential side effects. We hope this article has helped you better understand the ins and outs of Metamucil, including whether or not it breaks a fast, how many calories it contains, and whether or not it could lead to an insulin spike.
