Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Yes, possibly increased too quickly -

It is very concentrated, so that can be easy to do.

For the Tummy Fiber Acacia to work properly, it's crucial that you start with a low dose (1/2 teaspoon twice daily) and gradually increase to a dose high enough to resolve constipation (which may be 4-5 tablespoons a day). If you get gas or bloating, that means that you increased your dose too quickly. It can take several weeks to gradually increase up to the dose you'd likely need to resolve constipation, and unfortunately you can't rush this. Tummy Fiber is not a drug or a laxative so it won't work overnight.

A good rate of increase is to add an extra 1/2 tsp to just one of your daily doses, every 3-4 days. That way you are staggering your increase and going gradually. As you get your dose up you may be able to increase by 1 tsp at a time, as your gut will get used to more fiber.

I really feel for the constipation folks, since it takes some patience to start slowly, increase gradually, and eventually get your daily dose high enough to resolve symptoms. A lower dose can't worsen constipation, but it won't resolve it, either.

Having the fiber at least twice a day - and you can have it more often - is also key, as you want to keep your gut filled with soluble fiber at all times. That will help prevent cramping and spasms in the first place.

It's also helpful to review the Five Constipation Frustrations here http://www.helpforibs.com/news/newsletter/060705.html#askheather. If you've been using laxatives, check here http://www.helpforibs.com/news/newsletter/06/082206.html#askheather for information on transitioning off of them.

Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.

XXOO
H

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Heather is the Administrator of the IBS Message Boards. She is the author of Eating for IBS and The First Year: IBS, and the CEO of Heather's Tummy Care. Join her IBS Newsletter. Meet Heather on Facebook!

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