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| result can be intestinal blockage. Gradually replace white flour bread and pasta with whole grain products, eat whole fruits and vegetables and replace white rice with brown or blend the two together. |
| Those who suffer from diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, spastic colon and similar ailments must approach fiber with caution. In advanced cases, even the gentlest soluble fibers can cause problems. Although fiber is an important part of the cure for these illnesses, a depleted and damaged digestive tract must be healed before it can cope with whole foods. Fresh, raw juices are probably the best initial therapy for these patients. |
| A note on psyllium: This popular, effective bulking agent is a potential allergen. Some nurses who prepare daily doses in hospitals or nursing homes have inhaled enough of the powder to develop serious allergies. Psyllium comes from Plantago ovata, a member of the plantain family (plantain the garden weed, not the tropical green banana) and, as with any plant, too much of it can cause an adverse reaction. When measuring psyllium husk powder, keep your face averted or wear a pollen mask. Add a teaspoon or tablespoon of powder to a full glass of juice or water, stir briskly and swallow the liquid before it gels. Follow with another glass of water. Some commercial psyllium powders contain acidophilus bacteria to protect intestinal flora. If you use plain psyllium powder, recommended because it does not contain the sugar and artificial flavors found in Metamucil and similar brands, take an acidophilus supplement at the same time. |
| Fiber supplements that can be taken in capsules or used like powdered psyllium husk include glucomannan (Amorphophallus konjac and A. riveri), a powdered root that absorbs up to 40 times its weight in liquids, giving a feeling of fullness that aids dieters and improves bowel function; guar gum (Cyamopsis tetragonolaba), a thickening agent from the seeds of the Indian Cluster Bean or Guar plant with similar properties; and pectin, the familiar jelling agent used in jams and jellies. Agar agar, a seaweed, is another source of soluble fiber, but it requires cooking |
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