Ask Dr. Beck
Dr. Beck is board certified in general and colon and rectal surgery and is a Clinical Professor of Surgery at Vanderbilt. Dr. Beck conducts research into colorectal diseases, has authored and edited nine medical textbooks, and written over 350 scientific publications. He was the President of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) from 2010-2011. Dr. Beck is a nationally recognized expert in inflammatory bowel disease, anal, rectal and colon cancer, stomas, adhesions, bowel preparation, sphincter saving surgery for cancer, laparoscopic surgery, and postoperative pain management.
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Stool Softener
Is it OK to take Metamucil daily or a stool softener? I’ve had a colostomy since 2015, never had a problem going, but now it’s literally days before anything happens and then it’s all hell breaks loose. I’d like to be regular again. Oh, I eat healthy, drink plenty of water and walk 2-3 miles a day so there is no lack of that. Anyone know if that’s something we can safely take daily?
P.R.
Dear P.R.
Oral fiber is very helpful as it causes the stool to be larger in size which encourages the colon to move stool along quicker. A high fiber diet is healthy and there is good evidence that it can reduce intestinal problems and contribute to a healthy life. Sources of fiber such as psyllium (Metamucil) have little downside and many benefits. Taking it daily is a good option. Stool softeners are “wetting agents” that help water mix in with stool. It is the least effective dietary option, but again there is no health issue associated with taking it regularly.
