The benefits of fiber are numerous, from preventing constipation and soft stool, to weight loss and better heart health. Fiber comes in two forms, insoluble and soluble. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and is the main component of fiber supplements designed for better bathroom experiences. Soluble fiber dissolves in water, is readily absorbed by the body, and has been shown to help control blood sugar and cholesterol.
There’s a story about John Wayne that may or may not be true. He died with 60 pounds of compacted feces in his intestines. If true, he clearly did not avail himself of insoluble fiber and the wonders it can do at potty time. Fiber can not only make bowel movements more pleasant if you suffer from constipation—or the opposite, frequent trips to the toilet—but it can also make you more regular. Many fiber users can set a watch based on when the bathroom calls.
Some people don’t like the taste of fiber. Powdered varieties need to be mixed with water, and quickly turn into a thick slurry that needs to be consumed fast. Alternatives to “fiber-crete” drinks are pills and gummies. They tend to contain less fiber than a full glass of the traditional stuff, but they often contain other healthy vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc.
A proper fiber regimen not only cleans out your digestive track, but it can do so on a timetable, so you’ll know when your bowels are empty. This can help athletes who are weighed-in for a particular sporting event, or folks who want to make sure unwanted bathroom stuff doesn’t interfere with their love life.