How Metamucil Leads to Weight Loss

What is Metamucil?

Metamucil is a fiber supplement and is made up primarily of psyllium seed husks. People often use it to relieve constipation. The truth, however, is that Metamucil is not a laxative in the sense that it does not stimulate the colon and build pressure upon the bowels to pass out the waste.

Since the husk is not water-soluble and cannot be digested, it also reduces the amount of food that can be digested and absorbed by the body. It, therefore, pushes itself out of the system. It is in this sense that Metamucil relieves the constipation.

Can you lose weight with Metamucil?

Yes, Metamucil can help you lose weight to some extent. Since psyllium seed husk is indigestible, it creates a feeling of fullness. You tend to eat a little less, ingest lesser amount of calories and eventually lose weight.

But the amount of weight you lose is not really great. Moreover, you will not be able to maintain the weight loss unless you take fibrous fruits, vegetables and whole grains and also avoid products that increase the calories and lead to weight gain.

Other benefits of Metamucil

The fibrous content of Metamucil cleanses the blood vessels and the intestine as it makes its way downwards. It, therefore, reduces the level of cholesterol.

According to the research conducted by the Food and Drugs Administration, Metamucil may help in lowering the risk of heart attack.

Harmful effects of Metamucil

It has been reported that a continued consumption of Metamucil may lead to vitamin deficiency. Psylliums seed is only husk and not a food. Some consumers even complain of flatulence, stomach cramps and gas.

Excessive ingestion of Metamucil without sufficient water may even dry up the colon. You may also experience a little difficulty in breathing as you swallow it.

Metamucil is also available in capsule form. But again you should take plenty of water as it may swell your face as well as the throat resulting in choking it.

Since psyllium seed is just a dry husk, you must drink plenty of water to prevent it from staying put in the colon and get it moving along. Those who do not drink sufficient amount of water with Metamucil tend to get constipated instead of being relieved of it.

What is the best way to lose weight?

Physical exercises are good provided you take them regularly, but that is easier said than done. After a few days people tend to find excuses to skip them.

Similarly it is not easy to stick to strict bland diet regimes, keep counting calories and refrain from the tasty, crisp and fried foods. There are always reasons to take it "just for now".

It would be inhuman to deny yourself a tasty food now and them. The good news is that you can enjoy your favorite foods, of course, within limits and also lose weight.

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