The company that makes the Metamucil caplets claims that their product isn't habit forming and other third party sources claim it isn't either. But there are some that claim that it is. Does anyone know if it is or not (perhaps a doctor)? And can you back it up with an explanation? Bottom line is, could someone hypothetically take it daily, day in and day out like they would take vitamins and not expect it to have any adverse effects (cumulative as well) to their body? I know that purpose made laxatives like Ex-Lax are habit forming and isn't designed for regular use, but I'm wondering if it is so with Metamucil.

 

Metamucil is made for daily-use to help keep people (generally elderly people) regular. It should not be physically habit forming (mentally, people can be adicted to to anything if they've convinced themselves of such). When taking it, like any medicine, follow the directions/instructions listed on the packaging unless instructed otherwise by a physician (its always a good idea to check that recomendation with your local pharmacist...I've seen some deadly advice come out of doctors' mouths and thankfully a pharmacist spotted it in time).

 

metamucil is fiber and fiber is not habit forming. To be honest, it should only be taken by "older people". I am 32 and I take it and a baby aspirin every day. By keeping you regular, fiber reduces the incidence of both colon cancer and divirticulosis/divirticulitis (outpouchings in the colon that are VERY common in west and not seen in the east; due to diet).

 

Isn't Ex-Lax fiber too? So would there be any negative effects for a 25 year old to constantly take this?

 

ex-lax is not fiber

 

Blond sitting next to another blond job applicant in reception area waiting for interview, "Im here for the computer analyst position." Other blond, "Oh, do you know IBM?"

"I'll bet you do!" she replied. "Especially after eating oatmeal."

 

I don't get it

Is metamucil ok to use as a supplement to control IBS?

 

This is what my doctor told me to use when I was diagnosed with it. I've been using Metamucil for almost a decade now, and I haven't had any IBS-related incidents since then. [knocks on wood] Habit forming? Eh... I just toss a scoop into my protein shakes every morning. Being regular is

On the other hand, my parents' physician told my sister who also has IBS to take Pepto Bismol to control it. Needless to say, they've found another family doctor.

 

I've been taking the Metamucil caplets (don't want the hassle of the original formula) daily for the past month just for the heck of it. If the only thing hurting me is the cost of purchasing it, then why not? It's like the equivalent of running a fuel system cleaner on your car everyday to clean out the deposits and other garbage lol.