The One Supplement That Could Lead To Gas, Bloating, And Other Digestive Issues

Fiber supplements and digestive issues

Fiber is an important component of a balanced diet. It plays a crucial role in digestion, and it can even help control your blood sugar levels and lower your cholesterol. There are plenty of high-fiber foods to choose from, but if you're worried that you're not getting enough fiber in your diet, you may turn to supplements. However, Richards says you should be careful when taking fiber supplements.

"Excessive fiber supplement use can be harmful to gut health," she says. "While fiber is crucial for digestive health, consuming too much of it in supplement form can lead to adverse effects. Excessive fiber intake can cause bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort, as the body struggles to break down and absorb the excess fiber."

She notes that consuming too much insoluble fiber, in particular, "can be abrasive to the intestinal lining, potentially leading to irritation and inflammation." Yikes! "This can worsen symptoms in individuals with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or Crohn's disease." For this reason, you may want to skip fiber supplements altogether if you struggle with digestive conditions like these.

"Overloading on fiber supplements can also disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, as it can promote the growth of certain types of bacteria that ferment fiber, leading to excessive gas production and digestive distress," Richards adds.

Worried about running into these risks? The best solution is to get fiber directly from the foods you eat and monitor your intake. "It's essential to consume fiber in moderation and prioritize a balanced, whole-foods-based diet to promote optimal gut health," Richards concludes. Got it!