Can You Take Benefiber While Pregnant

Where To Buy Benefiber

Are you looking for Benefiber reviews? Head on to Benefiber Walmart. Here you will be able to peruse through various products from Benefiber and read each review.

A variety of Benefiber products are available in Walmart retail locations, including Benefiber Healthy Shape.

Also, there are various other online sources such as Amazon and the Benefiber website that sell Benefiber products.

Guidance On Managing Constipation

The first-line treatment for constipation is increasing dietary fibre and fluid intake. Dietary fibre intake can be improved by eating more wholegrain foods, fruit and vegetables, or through wheat or bran fibre supplementation. Where fibre supplementation does not alleviate symptoms, laxatives may be helpful in the short-term, although they can cause adverse side effects such as abdominal pain and diarrhoea.

Safe Cough And Sore Throat Remedies During Pregnancy

• Dextromethorphan or Dextromethorphan-guaifenesin, such as Robitussin and Robitussin DM. 120 mg in 24 hours
• Nasal drops or sprays
• Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, for aches, pains, sore throat and fever
• Salt water gargling
• Menthol rub on chest, temples and under the nose
• Chloraseptic spray
• Cough drops or lozenges containing benzocaine
• Expectorant during the day

Cough and Flu Medications to Avoid During Pregnancy

• Bactrim, an antibiotic

Also Check: How Long Are You Pregnant For In Weeks

What Cold Meats Am I Allowed To Eat While Pregnant

Bologna, wieners , roast beef, and sliced turkey breast should all be avoided as offered products that have not been dried. They may, however, be safe to consume if they are adequately roasted, reaching 740C , a temperature that kills any microorganisms present.

Because they were heated to a high temperature before canning, canned spreads are safe. Refrigerated pts and meat spreads, on the other hand, are not suggested.

Deli meats are either raw and fermented or cooked processed meats. Its possible to salt, smoke, or dry them. Sausages were originally created as a way to store meat that didnt need to be refrigerated. They usually have binding agents like starch or eggs, as well as a lot of preservatives like salt and nitrite, the latter of which is carcinogenic. Its crucial to remember that unprocessed meats are always preferable than deli meats. In this post, we look at a variety of meats and cold cuts that are commonly consumed, such as roast beef and turkey breast.

Because of their manufacturing and storage methods, some meats are more likely to be dangerous. Listeria monocytogenes , a bacteria that causes food poisoning that grows at low temperatures, should be given special care. It can also cross the placenta and induce infections in the uterus, which can lead to miscarriage or fetal meningitis. It is a hazardous bacteria that leaves no visible changes on food, thus extreme caution is required.

Is It Safe For Me To Consume Bacon While Im Pregnant

Bacon is safe to eat throughout pregnancy. Just make sure its properly cooked till its piping hot. If youre eating out, avoid ordering bacon because you dont know how thoroughly its cooked.

There are meat-free bacon substitutes available, such as soy or mushroom bacon, if you wish to entirely avoid all dangers. Moderation is crucial, as it is with any food.

Bacon in excess is not beneficial for anyone. However, theres no reason you cant enjoy a well-cooked serving of bacon now and then while youre pregnant.

Read Also: Pregnancy Side Effects Week By Week

You May Like: What To Take For Anxiety While Pregnant

Is It Safe To Use Otc Colace During Pregnancy

Introduction

Thanks to shifts in hormones and the added pressure a growing uterus places on the intestines, many women face constipation during pregnancy. Constipation is defined as having three or fewer bowel movements per week. Its also marked by straining during bowel movements, trouble passing stools, and passing small stools.

If you have constipation, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes or over-the-counter products to help ease your symptoms. Colace is one OTC drug used to relieve occasional, short-term constipation. Learn about its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Why Constipation Happens During Pregnancy

As mentioned above, constipation is one of the most common symptoms people experience during their first trimester of pregnancy and there are a couple of different causes. For people who didn’t suffer from constipation prior to becoming pregnant, their newfound feelings of being blocked up are likely due to hormonal changes.

At the start of a pregnancy, levels of the hormone progesterone increase, which relaxes the intestinal muscles. That means these muscles are not contracting as powerfully, so the movement of food and waste through the digestive tract slows down. The result: things can get backed up.

Constipation during trimester one may also be the result of iron supplementation. When you’re pregnant, your iron needs increase by 50%you need to increase your blood volume and your baby needs iron to facilitate healthy cell growth. But taking an iron supplement can cause constipation, so if your symptoms become unbearable you may need to switch to a different prenatal vitamin and/or strive to reach your increased iron needs through diet instead.

You May Like: How To Increase Milk Production While Pregnant

Why Do Women Suffer From Constipation In Pregnancy

A few reasons. The first one is progesterone! Your progesterone levels peak in the first trimester of pregnancy. Progesterone is an essential hormone keeping your uterus nice and relaxed, in fact your whole body is more relaxed and so is your bowel. You feel more bloated, this why you feel like you are 20 weeks pregnant when youre only 12 weeks. With this bowel relaxation, its motility slows down increasing your risk of constipation.

Then there is the reduced physical activity. Most women feel tired and perhaps nauseous within the first trimester of pregnancy. This results in being less active, which further slows down your bowel motility.

Vitamin supplements and in particular iron and calcium can also slow down your bowel motion. To add to the problem, more water gets absorbed through the bowel leading to relative dehydration. Finally, your growing uterus interferes with bowel motility, slowing things down.

What can we do?

• Increase your fibre intake. There are two types of fibre soluble and insoluble. The first type attracts water and turns this into gel, which makes your stool softer and easier to pass. The insoluble fibre increases bulk and speeds up passage through your bowel. Both types of fibre are found in vegetables, fruits and cereals. Aim for 25-30 mg a day. To give you some perspective:

1x banana = 3-4 grams of fibre

2x Weetbix = 3.3 grams of fibre

100 grams of vegetables = 4.4 gram of fibre

You may also like to read

Read Also: Vagisil Pregnant

Can Breastfeeding Cause Me To Be Constipated

Breastfeeding does not induce constipation in and of itself, but other factors may play a role. If youre experiencing constipation more frequently when nursing, its better to check your daily diet.

Breastfeeding may cause you to consume differently, which might cause constipation. Some nursing women, for instance, avoid coffee while lactating. It might cause your bowel motions to become more irregular.

Additionally, if you dont eat enough vegetables or drink plenty of water, you may constipation. There are related reasons causing constipation in breastfeeding moms, including stress, sleep habit changes, or dehydration.

Some tips to prevent constipation while breastfeeding include:

• Drink enough water
• Bathe in a soothing warm water
• Contact your healthcare provider

Also Check: How Can We Know About Pregnancy

Is Benefiber Or Metamucil More Effective

A clinical review published in 2015 sought to evaluate the health outcomes of regular fiber therapy by comparing commercially available fiber products. Researchers describe that a key difference between dextrin and psyllium is that dextrin is readily fermented in the intestinal tract. Once fermented, dextrin loses its water-holding capability and therefore is not an effective laxative. Psyllium is not fermented, and thus becomes a viscous, gel-like consistency and can hold water in the stool throughout the large bowel. This provides a hydrated, bulky stool that can be excreted more easily. Furthermore, the American College of Gastroenterology Chronic Constipation Task Force that psyllium was the only fiber supplement that showed enough clinical evidence to support an indication for chronic constipation.

The American Diabetes Association published a meta-analysis in 2019 evaluating fiber supplements effects on glycemic control. Their findings suggested that viscous fibers, like psyllium, showed the greatest effect on glycemic control. Psylliums viscous gel formation slows digestion, likely slowing sugar absorption. This effect of slowing digestion also leaves you feeling fuller for a longer period of time, seeming to aid in weight loss.

Your healthcare provider will provide recommendations on which type of fiber is best for your gut health.

Is Benefiber Safe During Pregnancy

Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers â it’s anonymous and free!

Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers â it’s anonymous and free!

HealthTap doctors are based in the U.S., board certified, and available by text or video.

Read Also: How To Support Pregnant Wife

What Fiber Supplement Is Best For Pregnancy

Metamucil Sugar-Free Fiber Supplement Bulk-forming laxatives, such as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safe to use during pregnancy, says Dr. Ross.

Another situation while pregnant: If youve had a difficult bowel movement or constipation, you might see some spotting. Other times well see women having spotting and bleeding throughout their pregnancy. As long as its a little bit on a panty liner or when you wipe, thats OK.

What can I use for bleeding hemorrhoids during pregnancy?

To ease the discomfort of hemorrhoids during pregnancy:

How do you stop blood in your stool while pregnant?

Does Fiber Get Passed Through Breast Milk

No. Supplements containing fiber do not transfer into your breast milk. As shared above, most fiber supplements contain wheat dextrin. It is a prebiotic fiber derived from plants that will be dissolved in water. For this reason, it will flow through the body without being processed. As a result, it will have no negative impact on your nursing or your babys digestion.

Also Check: Do You Get Gassy In Early Pregnancy

The Bottom Line Does Benefiber Work

Ahhh, now its time for the final take on this one ready? We like the companys long run in the supplement industry and all-natural source of fiber, but we dont feel comfortable suggesting it because of the higher price and poor customer service support. Based on some Benefiber reviews, were also a bit concerned with the A- BBB rating.

If youre ready to make those extra pounds disappear, we recommend a product with strong customer service support and an affordable price.

Among the best products weve seen this year is one called Noom. This program is the perfect combination of personalized support and the ease of use of an app dieters comment on seeing excellent results. Human coaching, customized meal plans and expert advice is just the start of a long list of benefits.

The makers of Noom are currently offering a free trial offer, which is a sign that theyre confident in their program.

Metamucil May Improve Cholesterol

The Metamucil label says that it can improve peoples cholesterol levels and help them maintain healthy blood sugar levels. This is because it contains psyllium.

A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition tested the effects of Metamucil on 72 people who were overweight or obese. They found that adding this fiber supplement improved cholesterol and insulin levels.

The researchers recommend eating a healthful, fiber-rich diet in addition to taking fiber supplements. It is unclear whether Benefiber would have similar effects.

Don’t Miss: When Do You Start Getting Signs Your Pregnant

What Should I Stay Away From In The Second Trimester

During pregnancy, a woman should avoid the following foods:

• Swordfish, shark, tilefish, and king mackerel are among the mercury-rich fish.
• dairy items that havent been pasteurized
• Brie, blue cheese, and feta are examples of soft cheeses.
• meats and seafood that are ready to eat

Because there is no known safe threshold of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, it should be avoided. All types of alcohol are potentially hazardous and can lead to:

• fetal alcohol spectrum disorders are a group of illnesses that affect

Physical, behavioral, and intellectual problems are all symptoms of FASDs.

Caffeine can be consumed in moderation by pregnant women. Although experts say that consuming 150 to 300 mg of caffeine per day is safe, the American Pregnancy Association recommends that pregnant women avoid it as much as possible.

Caffeine levels in an 8-ounce cup of coffee range from 95 to 165 mg, while a 6-ounce drink of black tea contains about 45 mg. Caffeine is also found in cola drinks, chocolate, green tea, and several pharmaceuticals.

Also Check: Sore Breasts After Mirena Removal

Safe Constipation Remedies During Pregnancy

• Metamucil, Citracel, Fibercon, Benefiber
• Stool softeners colace ,1 tablet 2-3 times a day, pericolace ,1 tablet 1-3 times a day
• Laxatives such as Milk of Magnesia, Correctal, Fleets enema and Miralax
• Imodium liquid or capsules for diarrhea
• Psyllium, which is the basic ingredient in Konsyl and Metamucil

You May Like: What Exercise Is Safe For Pregnancy

Should You Take Fiber Before Or After A Meal

Space your fiber supplement intake throughout the day to keep your digestive system balanced. Take each supplement dose with a large glass of water and stay hydrated throughout the day. If weight management is important to you, take your fiber with breakfast, lunch and dinner to make you feel fuller and more satisfied.

What is the benefit of Benefiber?

Prebiotic fiber doesnt just support a healthy digestive system, it nourishes the growth of good bacteria. Additionally, Benefiber Advanced Digestive Health can help relieve occasional constipation and abdominal discomfort* which is good news for the estimated 19% of North Americans who experience constipation.

What is the best time of day to take fiber?

Side Effects Of Miralax

When used at regular doses, MiraLAX is considered well-tolerated, safe, and effective. Still, like other medications, MiraLAX can cause side effects in some people.

The more common side effects of MiraLAX include:

• stomach discomfort

If you take more MiraLAX than the dosage instructions recommend, it may give you diarrhea and too many bowel movements. This could lead to dehydration . Dehydration can be dangerous for both you and your pregnancy. For more information, read about the importance of hydration during pregnancy. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the package carefully, and if you have questions about dosage, ask your doctor.

Also Check: What Happens If You Get Pregnant With Your Tubes Tied

What Are The Main Differences Between Benefiber And Metamucil

Benefiber is an over-the-counter soluble fiber supplement. The active ingredient in Benefiber is wheat dextrin. Benefiber absorbs water in the intestinal tract. This stimulates peristalsis or the repetitive contraction and relaxation of intestinal muscle. While this process ultimately moves intestinal contents, it slows the transit time through the intestine. Benefiber is available as a powder in packets or bulk packaging as well as oral or chewable tablets. There are sugar-free and gluten-free formulations available as well.

Metamucil is an OTC soluble fiber. Metamucil is made from psyllium husks, which come from seeds of an Indian herb known as Plantago ovata. Metamucil works in the same manner as Benefiber, stimulating peristalsis, and slowing intestinal transit. Metamucil is available as a powder in packets or bulk packaging as well as capsules. Some formulations are also sugar-free and gluten-free.

Constipation In Pregnant Women: What To Do

Do you suffer from constipation, just like 50% of pregnant women? Dont worry, there are many solutions compatible with pregnancy that can help relieve transit disorders. Changing your diet is often enough to notice an improvement.

Constipation and pregnancy: What medical treatments can be used?

For safety, you should avoid self-medication throughout your pregnancy. As such, avoid directly resorting to laxatives as several are not recommended for pregnant women. Stimulant laxatives in particular can cause abdominal cramps, dependency and even irritable bowel syndrome Its best to check with your doctor. If necessary, your doctor will be able to prescribe a mild laxative that has been shown to be safe .

Constipation and pregnancy: What natural remedies can be used?

Essential oils, herbal teas… There are many natural remedies available on the market. However, bear in mind that natural does not necessarily mean without risk. In reality, many plants and essential oils are not recommended throughout pregnancy or during parts of it. For example , pregnant women can drink artichoke herbal tea to regulate their bowel movements. Its all the more beneficial given that artichokes are a good source of vitamin B9, which is essential to the babys development. By contrast, buckthorn and rhubarb infusions should be avoided. When in doubt, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Don’t Miss: Can You Get Pregnant When You Re Not Fertile

Cough Medicines For Pregnant Women

Experiencing a cough while pregnant can cause physical discomfort and generate concern. When simple measures, like sucking on cough drops or sipping hot tea, fail to suppress a cough, some mothers-to-be seek relief with over-the-counter or prescription cough medicine. The safety of different types of cough medicine for pregnant women varies, depending primarily on the specific drug or drugs in the medication and how far along the pregnancy is. Pregnant women with a cough should consult their healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits before taking cough medicine and to determine whether they need to be seen for further evaluation of their cough.

If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Also Check: Can You Use Vagisil During Pregnancy