Fiber adverse reactions and interactions:
- Dry powdered fibers are generally safe when mixed with adequate water or another liquid, but are not without health risks. They should not be taken before bed.
- At least 8 ounces of fluid is recommended when taking dry fibers such as glucomannan, Konjac root, guar gum, Citrucel, and psyllium (Metamucil).
- Fibers may also bind medications and interfere with absorption resulting in a reduction in the desired effect of the medication. Therefore, medications should be taken at least 2 hours before or after the fiber.
Calcium and blood pressure:
Calcium intake precautions:
Preventive Health Advisor supports obtaining the RDA (recommended daily allowance) for calcium in adults to help maintain a normal blood pressure, but to avoid high calcium intake over 1400 mg per day including food sources and supplements. Patients should attempt to increase calcium intake by food sources to the RDA instead of supplements unless required to replace a deficiency gap in the recommended intake. Compared with dietary calcium intakes of 600 to 1000 mg daily, higher daily intakes of over 1400 mg of calcium was associated with significantly higher rates of death from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and ischemic heart disease as well as a higher rate of prostate cancer in men. See the section on calcium for more information.