Staying Regular

[Tara35]

I have read the book and the section that talks about constipation. Don't really understand the remedies. Basically what can I take everyday to make sure I stay regular. I usually have a movement every morning. Since starting Atkins, I have become irregular. I am taking a multivitamin Without Iron. I just want to make sure I don't become constipated. I drink about 120 ozs of water a day.

By the way, You guys are great! I can't stay away from this board.

[not2late]

Hi.

Dr. Atkins recommended that we take a fiber supplement. He recommended to start with 1 tablespoon daily of psyllium husks, flaxmeal or wheat bran. If we needed to increase that amount, we could in order to remain regular.

The fibers Dr. Atkins recommended are "bulk forming fiber". Basically, when you eat them they absorb the water in your gut and expand. The bulk formed from the absorption and expansion of the fiber stimulates your gut to move that bulk along and out.

So if you are taking the bulk-forming laxatives, you need to drink water. The daily minimum amount of water you need to drink on Atkins is 64 ounces. Around here the rule of thumb is the 64 ounces plus an additional 8 ounces for every 25 pounds you are overweight.

[Tara35]

I guess that is what I didn't understand. What is psyllium husks, flaxmeal or wheat bran? I associated wheat bran with bread. I guess that's why I'm confused.

[not2late]

They are all fiber supplements. Wheat bran is added to some breads and baked goods to increase the fiber content. You can find wheat bran in the baking section of your supermarket. Flaxmeal you can find in the baking section or in the natural foods section. Psyllium preparations can be found the laxative section of your pharmacy. Metamucil is psyllium. Caution about metamucil is that the powdered stuff contains sugar or aspartame. You're better off with the metamucil capsules in order to avoid sugar and aspartame.

[Tara35]

Thank you sooo much. You have been a great help.