Psyllium

Question
Hi Crystal,
I use psyllium capsules for almost every meal due to IBS. I'm wondering about the psyllium taking away most of the nutrition of my meals, particularly the calcium in milk (with cereal for breakfast). How much of a concern should this be? I do take calcium with vitamin D about 2 to 3 hours after each meal. Thank you for yor help in advance.

Answer
Hi Diane,
Your concerns are validated, since psyllium can certainly interfere with the absorption of certain vitamins & minerals, including calcium.   I would recommend that you take the Calcium & Vitamin D 1 hr before or 4 hrs after your psyllium capsules, to ensure that the psylllium is not binding to them, and preventing absorption.  
I understand that you are using psyllium for IBS, but you may want to  examine the dosage that you are consuming.   Is your current dosage effective for your IBS and controlling your bowel symptoms (diarrhea)?  You may want to experiment, and see if you can eliminate one of your psyllium doses during the day, as you might be too dependent on it for your bowel movements (BM's).   Try eliminating one of your doses, mid-day, and see how your body responds.   In place of the missed dose, try adding some fresh, raw veggies ( using homemade low fat/low sodium dip or spray salad dressing for a low calorie topping) and 8 oz of water or low calorie beverage (Crystal Light,  but not coffee/tea).  This will help provide bulk and liquid for your colon, and help to reduce your psyllium dosage.     
Most people can effectively maintain their BM symptoms with 1 or 2 psyllium doses per day, provided they are drinking enough liquids and eating a bulk diet with plenty of fiber, roughage, vegetables, etc.
Try this and see how it works for you Diane
Crystal  

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