How to Take Fiber Supplements with Other Medications

Fiber provides many health benefits, including lowering the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Fiber is found in grains, fruits, and vegetables, and is essential in maintaining health of the digestive tract. Depending on dietary habits, it can be difficult to obtain the recommended 25 grams of fiber per day. Taking a fiber supplement on a regular basis can help make up for the lack of fiber in our diets. Fiber, however, can interfere with some medications, and should be taken with care by those on prescription drugs.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask your doctor or pharmacist if taking fiber supplements will interfere with any prescription medications you may be taking. Fiber supplementation can reduce blood sugar levels and the absorption of certain medications such as aspirin and warfarin.

• 2

  Take medications as prescribed, and wait two hours before taking any fiber supplements. Fiber supplements may also be taken two hours prior to taking medications.

• 3

  Take fiber supplements with at least 8 ounces of water to avoid choking, because the fiber begins to swell when mixed with liquid. Drink plenty of water or other fluids every day to help flush fiber through the digestive tract. If you don’t drink enough liquids on a daily basis, the fiber can actually cause constipation.