Is Metamucil good for gastritis? (+3 benefits)

In this article, we will discuss whether Metamucil is good for gastritis. We will also see its potential benefits, risks, how it can be used, and other relevant information.

Is Metamucil good for gastritis?

Metamucil might or might not be good for gastritis. The reason is that gastritis has various forms. Other than this, we also need to see if Metamucil suits the patient’s condition (1).

Metamucil is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called laxatives. These are used to treat constipation. Metamucil is a high-fiber drink that bulks up the stool with fluid so it is softened (2).

Metamucil is a powdered form of psyllium husk, which is a type of seed that is derived from a plant called Plantago ovata. This active ingredient in Metamucil absorbs water and holds it.

This ultimately causes the stool to swell and bulk up so it can easily slide through the colon (1).

Gastritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the lining of the stomach. This inflammation manifests itself in many forms. It can be asymptomatic or present with severe symptoms. 

It is classified in more than one way and this is the reason why in some cases, taking Metamucil is beneficial while in other cases it might not. If your gastritis is not causing constipation, it might not be beneficial (2).

Metamucil for gastritis: What are the benefits?

Here are the potential benefits of Metamucil that may help with gastritis: 

May relieve constipation:

Metamucil belongs to a class of medications that softens the stool and helps to relieve symptoms of constipation. The primary API, Psyllium husk traps the water within the stool and makes it easier to pass the colon (1).

If you have constipation as a symptom of gastritis, Metamucil might work for you. 

Helps with bowel irregularity:

As psyllium adds more fiber to the contents of your stomach, it forms a viscous gel that traps water, sugar, and carbohydrates. This helps form a bulky mass that travels through your intestines.

In this manner, there is a distribution of contents across the entire GI that was previously imbalanced, and then stool passes more easily. Hence, Metamucil helps with bowel irregularities and brings them back to normal (2).

As a dietary supplement: 

As a dietary supplement, Metamucil is beneficial for various gastrointestinal disorders like gastritis, ulcerative colitis, and other conditions in which bowel movements get disturbed.

When it is consumed and fermented by the gut bacteria, it produces butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) which has the following benefits (3):

These benefits may support gastritis.

Metamucil in gastritis: What are the risks?

The use of metamucil is associated with mild allergic reactions as well as GI disturbances. It is reported to cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in cases it is not tolerated (2).

If taken too much, it will cause electrolyte imbalance. This is why it is necessary to take it in a prescribed manner as advised by your pharmacist (2).

Thus, you can experience these side effects if your body does not tolerate Metamucil or you are taking it in an excessive amount. 

How should you take Metamucil if you have gastritis?

You should only take Metamucil for gastritis if your doctor prescribes it. Metamucil is not safe for use for every kind of patient with gastritis, and in some cases, it might do more harm than good (2).

It is not to be taken in cases where:

• you have had an allergic reaction to Metamucil 
• bowel obstruction
• colonic atony
• phenylketonuria
• children under six years of age

If your healthcare provider has approved the use of Metamucil for you, then you can make use of the following tips to ensure a good experience while using Metamucil.

Metamucil is a good way through which fiber can be added to your diet. However, you need to take it with a balanced diet, primarily of vegetables, and exercise regularly. Practice weight control to ensure the best results.

It is good to take Metamucil with water and swallow capsules whole one at a time. Ensure good water intake with metamucil use. You must drink a whole glass of water while taking the capsule, as it can swell in your throat and cause choking. 

Do not take Metamucil for 7 days directly without expert advice. The body tends to develop dependency on such medication and it is always good to consult your pharmacist for these issues.

Call your healthcare provider immediately if you start bleeding from your rectum after taking Metamucil. Do so in the case of abdominal pain, nausea, or any other adverse symptoms you might feel. 

In my experience:

As per my understanding, Metamucil might or might not be beneficial for gastritis depending on your condition. The factors influencing the benefit of Metamucil are your type of gastritis and if it suits your GI.

In cases when it is beneficial, it helps to relieve constipation and help with bowel irregularities. It has anti-inflammatory properties and supports the gut microbiota. 

It shows its best effects with a good diet and exercise. It is also important to maintain your water intake with this medication. You should consult your doctor before taking Metamucil, and take it in the prescribed dose.

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