Should You Take Metamucil Before Or After Meals?

Our pharmacist answers the latest question regarding whether or not your should take Metamucil before or after a meal.

Question

Should Metamucil be taken before or after meals?

Asked by Bernard On May 06, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published May 06, 2022
Last updated Mar 28, 2024

Key points

  • Metamucil can safely be taken at any point during the day.
  • However, taking Metamucil before a meal can help the feeling of fullness and lead to less food consumption.

Hello and thanks for reaching out to us!

The directions for Metamucil (Psyllium) fiber don't indicate a preference for dosing before or after meals. People can feel free to take it either way. Per Metamucil.com:

Metamucil Directions

Is There A Best Time?

Having said the above, consuming any type of fiber tends to have an effect on the feeling of satiety (fullness) for people taking it.

Multiple studies have shown that dosing fiber BEFORE a meal can significantly reduce the amount of food one consumes during their next meal.

In addition, fiber can slow the digestion of food, reducing blood glucose levels and cholesterol as well.

Due to these reasons, I usually do recommend taking fiber supplements before meals as you may get more of a health benefit out of it.

Final Words

It is important to note that Metamucil can affect some drugs.

It should be taken at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after other oral medications. It's also recommended to take the fiber with at least 8 ounces of fluid and to drink another glass of water after consumption of the dose.

References

  • Effects of psyllium vs. placebo on constipation, weight, glycemia, and lipids: A randomized trial in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic constipation, PubMed
  • Fiber supplements and clinically proven health benefits: How to recognize and recommend an effective fiber therapy, PubMed

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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