Page 64 - Prevention (February 2020)
P. 64
SCI E NCE
Does It Work?
Constipation Cures
BY STEPHANIE ANDERSON WITMER
s the children’s work too, but you’ll need to take
book says, everyone more. In a 2019 study, research-
poops. But everyone ers found that psyllium husk not
Asometimes can’t only helped with constipation,
poop—especially as we age. but also improved gut microbes.
“As our metabolism slows It won’t be a quick fix, how-
down, motility slows down too,” ever. “I have patients try fiber
says Christine Y. Lee, M.D., a for at least two to three weeks
gastroenterologist at Cleveland before I say it’s not effective,”
Clinic. Staying active, drinking says Ibironke Oduyebo, M.D., a
plenty of water, and eating a spokesperson for the American
fiber-rich diet are great ways Gastroenterological Association.
to prevent constipation, but WHEN SHOULD YOU TAKE THEM?
sometimes you need a little If staying regular is an issue,
help. Here’s what experts say experts say adding 6 to 9 grams
can get things moving. of fiber to your diet per day
can help. But fiber needs water
FIBER-BASED to work; Dr. Lee recommends
LAXATIVES drinking 8 ounces with every
WHAT THEY ARE: Usually made 3 grams of added fiber.
from psyllium husk, methyl- BRANDS: Metamucil powder
cellulose, or dextrin, fiber ($20 to $25); Benefiber tablets
laxatives bulk up the stool so ($11 for 28); Citrucel caplets
there’s more to move through. ($24 for 180)
WHAT WE KNOW: Psyllium husk
is the best type of laxative in OSMOTIC LAXATIVES
this category, says Dr. Lee— WHAT THEY ARE: Osmotics
but people often avoid using it draw water from surrounding
because it’s coarse and gritty. tissue into the colon and bowel
The smoother powders and pills to produce softer stool.
60 PREVENTION.COM • F E B RUARY 2020
