Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Guar gum, a water-soluble dietary fiber derived from the guar bean, has been investigated for its potential to alleviate constipation, particularly in adults. The mechanism by which guar gum acts is largely attributed to its ability to act as a bulk-forming laxative. When ingested, guar gum absorbs water and forms a viscous gel within the gastrointestinal tract, increasing stool bulk and moisture. This can stimulate peristalsis and promote more regular bowel movements. Several clinical studies have assessed the efficacy of guar gum in treating constipation. For example, randomized controlled trials have shown that supplementation with partially hydrolyzed guar gum increases stool frequency and improves stool consistency in adults with chronic constipation. A meta-analysis of dietary fibers concluded that guar gum, among other fibers, can significantly improve symptoms of constipation relative to placebo. Additionally, guar gum is generally well tolerated, with few adverse effects reported, although excessive intake may lead to bloating or flatulence. Despite promising results, the overall quality of evidence is moderate, with some variability in study design and outcomes. Guar gum is not as extensively studied as other fiber supplements such as psyllium, and individual response may vary. Nonetheless, current scientific literature provides a reasonable basis for recommending guar gum as part of a dietary strategy to manage chronic constipation, particularly for individuals seeking a fiber supplement.

More about guar gum
More about Constipation (adults)

Other ingredients used for Constipation (adults)

Other health conditions supported by guar gum

Products containing guar gum

Metagenics ArginCor®
Metagenics Axis Endo™ Mango
Metagenics Bone Builder Chewable Chocolate
Metagenics Clear Change 10-Day Detox Program with UltraClear RENEW Berry
Metagenics Clear Change 10-Day Detox Program with UltraClear RENEW Chai
Metagenics Clear Change 10-Day Detox Program with UltraClear RENEW Vanilla
Metagenics Clear Change 28-Day Detox Program with UltraClear RENEW Berry
Metagenics Clear Change 28-Day Detox Program with UltraClear RENEW Chai
Metagenics Clear Change 28-Day Detox Program with UltraClear RENEW Vanilla
Thorne EnteroMend NSF
Integrative Therapeutics Fiber Formula
Thorne FiberMend
Metagenics Ketogenic Shake Chocolate
Metagenics Ketogenic Shake Vanilla
Metagenics MetaKids Nutrition Powder Chocolate
Metagenics MetaKids Nutrition Powder Vanilla
Metagenics Multigenics Chewable Orange
Metagenics NuSera® Chocolate
Metagenics Perfect Protein® Pea & Rice Chocolate Powder
Metagenics Perfect Protein Pea & Rice Vanilla Powder
Pure Encapsulations PureLean® Fiber
Metagenics Ultra Glucose Control® Chocolate
Metagenics Ultra Glucose Control Chocolate
Metagenics Ultra Glucose Control Vanilla
Metagenics Ultra Glucose Control Vanilla
Metagenics Ultra Protein Bar Peanut Butter
Metagenics UltraClear RENEW Detox Powder Berry
Metagenics UltraClear RENEW Detox Powder Chai
Metagenics UltraClear RENEW Detox Powder Vanilla
Metagenics UltraInflamX Plus 360°® Chocolate/Orange
Metagenics UltraInflamX Plus 360° Mango
Metagenics UltraInflamX Plus 360° Mango
Metagenics UltraInflamX Plus 360° Orange
Metagenics UltraInflamX Plus 360° Original Spice
Metagenics UltraInflamX Plus 360° Pineapple/Banana
Metagenics UltraInflamX Plus 360° Pineapple/Banana