Constipation

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 randomized controlled trials involving 1,251 adults with chronic constipation found fiber supplementation improved overall response, stool frequency, and stool consistency compared with control. Psyllium and pectin showed significant effects.

• Considerable heterogeneity was present.
• Flatulence was more common with fiber.
• Benefits were more evident with doses above 10 g/day and treatment durations of at least four weeks.
• Do not generalize all fiber types as equally effective.
• Do not claim fiber cures chronic constipation.

Not established.

• Source 1: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816465/

Recent randomized-trial synthesis suggests viscous soluble fibers, including psyllium, improve stool frequency, stool consistency, and straining in chronic idiopathic constipation.

• Evidence varies by fiber subtype and outcome.
• Insoluble fibers should not be assumed to produce the same effects.
• Do not present psyllium as universally effective.
• Do not claim psyllium cures chronic constipation.

Not established.

• Source 1: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42317046/
• Source 2: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816465/