What is the difference between the psyllium fiber in Metamucil and the methylcellulose fiber in Citrucel?
Fiber is the non-digestible portion of plant foods that plays a critical role in digestion. There are two different categories that all fiber products fall into: 1) soluble or insoluble, and 2) fermentable or non-fermentable.
Soluble fiber dissolves in water, whereas insoluble fiber does not. The fiber in Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber is 100% soluble; the psyllium fiber in Metamucil is not 100% soluble.
Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber contains only 100% non-fermentable fiber, so none of it ferments to cause excess gas. This is based on laboratory tests. Results may vary in humans.
How long does it take Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber to work?
Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber can take anywhere between 12 and 72 hours to take effect.
Can I mix Citrucel with Methylcellulose fiber in something other than water?
Citrucel with methylcellulose can be mixed with water or juice provided you use 8 ounces of a cold liquid. Cold liquid is important for dispersion. It is best to avoid mixing Citrucel with methylcellulose into milk and carbonated beverages. Citrucel with methylcellulose will release the carbonation too fast, and the drink will "erupt” and overflow the glass. We do not recommend mixing Citrucel with methylcellulose with hot beverages: keep stirring it. Also, the product may gel in hot liquids.
How do Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber caplets compare to the powder in their fiber content?
Each two-caplet dose of Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber caplets contains one gram of methylcellulose. This compares to two grams of Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber in each one-scoop dose. In other words, you will need to take four caplets to get the same amount of fiber that is in one scoop of Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber powder. Four caplets can be taken at the same time. We recommend that you drink 8 oz. of liquid with each dose of 2-4 caplets.
How long can Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber be used? Can I use it every day?
Laxative products, including Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber, shouldn’t be used for longer than one week unless you’re directed to do so by your physician. If you encounter a situation in which you find that you need a product like Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber for a longer period of time, we would recommend that you contact your doctor for advice on the possible causes of the situation and courses of action.
Additionally, the suggested one-week duration for using the product serves to make consumers aware that an ongoing problem, such as persistent constipation, warrants medical attention. If appropriate, a physician may advise you to use the product on a daily basis. Consult your doctor to determine if a more regimented use of Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber is appropriate for you.
How do the carbs and calories in one dose of Citrucel Powder compare with that of Citrucel Caplets?
Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber Regular Orange - 17g carbs and 60 calories
Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber Sugar-Free Orange - 8g carbs and 24 calories
Citrucel with Methylcellulose Fiber Caplets (2 caplet dose) - 0 carbs, 5 calories