Glucomannan vs Other Fibers for Chronic Constipation Relief


Glucomannan is a little known fiber that plays a crucial role in constipation relief. This is because it serves not only as a form of soluble fiber, but also as a probiotic. Let's compare it to other popular fiber constipation remedies.


Psyllium Husk


Psyllium has been used for constipation relief for generations. It comes from the crushed seeds of the Plantago ovata plant and is native in Asia, Europe, and Africa, but is now also cultivated in Inida, Pakistan, and the United States. Several side effects have been reported with psyllium such as gas and bloating. Also, some people have reported allergies with psyllium such as skin rashes, hives, and difficulty breathing. Psyllium could interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients such as iron, zinc, and calcium, so be aware if you are taking such supplements or are deficient in these nutrients already.


Benefiber (Guar Gum)


The Guar plant grows primarily in Pakistan and India and is usually used as a thickener in foods but is also the main ingredient in Benefiber used for constipation relief. Guar gum could cause numerous side effects:

  • Flatulence

  • Diarrhea – if too much guar gum is consumed, diarrhea could occur

  • Heartburn

  • Obstruction of the bowel

Guar gum could also interfere with the absorption of ethinyl estradiol which is a type of estrogen in some birth control pills. If you are taking guar gum as a constipation remedy as well as a product that has this type of estrogen, you may need to check with your doctor about long-term safety.



Glucomannan


Glucomannan is a water-soluble fiber that is derived from the Konjac root. This innovative fiber expands in your colon and increases the bulk in your stool which provides an easy transit and constipation relief. Another great benefit of glucomannan is that it promotes a positive environment for the bacteria in your colon helping them survive the toxic effects of constipation. Chronic use of medications and unhealthy diets could lead to toxic colons and overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria which in turn could cause illness.


The best constipation remedies work in several ways, such as StayRegular's quad action approach to occasional constipation treatment:

  • Glucomannan fiber for bulk and beneficial bacteria support

  • Hydration for your colon by drawing more water

  • Rebalance healthy colon bacteria through probiotics

  • Nutrients to support colon contractions for easier stool transit

StayRegular is unique because it provides constipation relief by addressing the underlying causes of the constipation - not just the explicit symptoms (which is what most laxatives address). Regardless of what you use, if there is fiber involved, remember to drink lots of water or it can actually make your constipation worse!