Citrucel and Metamucil are two popular brands of over-the-counter fiber supplements that are commonly used to help promote regular bowel movements and relieve constipation. While both products contain fiber, they differ in terms of their ingredients, dosages, and how they work in the body. We will compare and contrast Citrucel vs Metamucil to help you determine which product may be best suited for your needs.
Ingredients in Citrucel and Metamucil
Citrucel contains methylcellulose, which is a type of soluble fiber that is derived from cellulose, a natural substance found in plants. Methylcellulose is not absorbed by the body, but instead passes through the digestive tract intact. Once it reaches the colon, it absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance that helps to add bulk to the stool and promote bowel regularity.
Metamucil, on the other hand, contains psyllium husk, which is a type of plant fiber that is derived from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. Psyllium husk is also a soluble fiber, but unlike methylcellulose, it is partially absorbed by the body. Once it reaches the colon, it absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance that helps to add bulk to the stool and promote bowel regularity.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of Citrucel is one scoop, or two tablespoons, mixed with at least 8 ounces of water, up to three times per day. Citrucel can be taken with or without food, and should be consumed immediately after mixing with water to prevent it from thickening too quickly.
The recommended dosage of Metamucil varies depending on the product and form. The standard Metamucil powder requires one rounded tablespoon mixed with at least 8 ounces of water, up to three times per day. The Metamucil capsules require two to six capsules, up to three times per day, while the Metamucil wafers require two wafers, up to six times per day. Like Citrucel, Metamucil can be taken with or without food and should be consumed immediately after mixing with water or chewing to prevent it from thickening too quickly.
Dosage Tips
When taking either Citrucel or Metamucil, it is important to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it over time. This can help to prevent digestive discomfort and ensure that the body is able to adjust to the increased fiber intake.
It is also important to drink plenty of water when taking either Citrucel or Metamucil. The fiber in these products needs water to form a gel-like substance in the digestive tract, and without enough water, they can cause constipation or other digestive issues.
When taking Metamucil, it is important to take it at least two hours before or after any medications, as it can interfere with their absorption. It is also important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Metamucil if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications.
Mechanism of Action
Citrucel and Metamucil both work by adding bulk to the stool and promoting bowel regularity, but they differ in terms of their mechanism of action. Methylcellulose, the active ingredient in Citrucel, does not ferment in the colon, which means it does not produce gas or bloating. This makes Citrucel a good option for people who are prone to digestive discomfort or sensitivity.
Psyllium husk, the active ingredient in Metamucil, does ferment in the colon, which means it can produce gas and bloating in some people. However, psyllium husk has been shown to have additional health benefits beyond its ability to promote regular bowel movements. For example, psyllium husk can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes.
Side Effects
Both Citrucel and Metamucil are generally well-tolerated, but they can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects of both products are gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. These side effects are usually mild and go away as the body adjusts to the increased fiber intake.
In rare cases, both Citrucel and Metamucil can cause more serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, or throat closing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Which is more expensive?
The cost of Citrucel vs Metamucil can vary depending on the product and the retailer. In general, Citrucel is slightly more expensive
Clinical Research
Citrucel and Metamucil are recommended for daily use in order to maintain regular bowel movements and promote overall digestive health. Both products can be taken on a long-term basis without the risk of dependence or harmful side effects.
Regular use of Citrucel can help to prevent constipation, reduce the risk of diverticulitis, and promote healthy bowel movements. Citrucel can also help to reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids and anal fissures by reducing the need to strain during bowel movements.
Metamucil offers similar benefits to Citrucel, but with the additional benefit of its ability to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. Research has shown that regular use of Metamucil can help to reduce LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol levels, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Metamucil may also help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar spikes in people with type 2 diabetes.
Both Citrucel and Metamucil have been extensively studied in clinical trials to evaluate their safety and effectiveness in promoting digestive health. Here are some key findings from the research on these two products:
Citrucel:
- A study published in the journal Advances in Therapy found that Citrucel was effective in reducing constipation and improving overall bowel function in a group of 100 adults over a 4-week period. Participants who took Citrucel reported significant improvements in stool frequency, consistency, and ease of passage, as well as reductions in abdominal discomfort and bloating.
- Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that Citrucel was effective in preventing diverticulitis, a condition in which small pouches form in the colon and become inflamed or infected. The study followed over 4000 people for 11 years and found that those who took Citrucel had a significantly lower risk of developing diverticulitis compared to those who did not take a fiber supplement.
- A review of the literature on fiber supplements published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that Citrucel was well-tolerated and effective in promoting regular bowel movements, reducing constipation, and improving overall digestive health.
Metamucil:
- A meta-analysis of 28 randomized controlled trials published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that Metamucil was effective in reducing LDL cholesterol levels by an average of 7%, as well as improving other lipid and glucose markers in people with and without diabetes. The study found that the cholesterol-lowering effects of Metamucil were similar to those of statin drugs, but with fewer side effects.
- Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that Metamucil was effective in reducing blood sugar spikes and improving insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes. The study followed 34 adults with diabetes over a 12-week period and found that those who took Metamucil had significantly lower fasting blood sugar levels and improved insulin sensitivity compared to those who took a placebo.
- A review of the literature on fiber supplements published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that Metamucil was well-tolerated and effective in promoting regular bowel movements, reducing constipation, and improving overall digestive health. The review also noted that Metamucil may have additional benefits for people with diabetes or high cholesterol levels.
Overall, the research suggests that both Citrucel and Metamucil are safe and effective fiber supplements that can promote digestive health and improve certain health markers. However, the specific benefits and mechanisms of action may differ between the two products, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to determine which product is right for you based on your individual needs and health status.
Citrucel and Metamucil – Which is better for regular bowel movements?
Citrucel and Metamucil are both effective fiber supplements that can help to promote regular bowel movements and improve overall digestive health. While they differ in terms of their ingredients, dosages, and mechanisms of action, both products offer similar benefits and can be used on a long-term basis without the risk of dependence or harmful side effects.
When choosing between Citrucel vs Metamucil, it is important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Citrucel may be a better option for people who are prone to digestive discomfort or sensitivity, while Metamucil may be a better option for people who are looking to improve their cholesterol levels or blood sugar control.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which product is right for you is to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian. They can help you to evaluate your individual needs and develop a personalized plan to improve your digestive health.
