Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which Fiber Supplement Is Better in 2025?
Table of Contents
- Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which One Should You Choose?
- Citrucel: The Gentle Fiber Supplement
- Metamucil: The Psyllium Fiber Powerhouse
- Key Differences: Citrucel vs Metamucil
- Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which One Is Better?
- Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which Is Better for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
- Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which Is Right for You?
- Citrucel vs Metamucil: Products Mentioned in this Blog Post
- Additional Information on Citrucel
- Save Money with Top-Rated Generics
- About Xeteor
- FAQs
IMPORTANT UPDATE (October 2025): Citrucel Powder with Sugar Has Been Discontinued.
While the comparison of active ingredients in this article remains accurate, please be aware that Haleon no longer produces the original Citrucel with Sugar. For the full story and to learn about its direct generic replacement, please read our detailed announcement.
If you’re comparing Citrucel vs Metamucil to support regularity, the big difference comes down to fiber type: methylcellulose (Citrucel and its generic) vs psyllium husk (Metamucil). This guide breaks down benefits, side effects (gas/bloating), taste and mixability, costs, and who each works best for—including links to taste tips and mixing without clumps, plus our in-depth overview of Citrucel generic alternatives.
Why Fiber Supplements Matter
Dietary fiber helps regulate bowel movements, ease occasional constipation, support weight management, and contribute to heart health. If you don’t consistently hit your daily fiber targets from food, a supplement such as Metamucil or Citrucel can help fill the gap—without overhauling your entire diet.
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Citrucel | Metamucil |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber Type | Methylcellulose (soluble, non-fermentable) | Psyllium husk (soluble + insoluble) |
| Fermentable? | No – typically less gas | Yes – may cause gas or bloating |
| Bloating Risk | Low | Moderate to high (varies by tolerance) |
| Digestive Sensitivity | Often preferred for IBS or sensitive stomachs | Effective, but can trigger bloating in some |
| Sugar-Free Options | Available | Available |
| How It Works | Forms a gel to ease stool passage | Adds bulk and retains water in stool |
| Best For | Gas sensitivity, gentler daily regularity | Extra bulk for constipation relief |
| Generic Alternative | Major Fiber Therapy | GoodSense Psyllium Fiber Powder |
Citrucel: The Gentle Fiber Supplement
Composition: Citrucel contains methylcellulose, a non-fermentable soluble fiber.
Effect: It absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance to promote regular bowel movements. Because its non-fermentable, many users report fewer issues with gas and bloating—one reason Citrucel generic alternatives remain popular for sensitive digestion.
Key Benefits of Citrucel:
- Gentler option if you’re prone to gas or bloating
- Often preferred for IBS or sensitive stomachs
- Available in flavored and sugar-free varieties
Metamucil: The Psyllium Fiber Powerhouse
Composition: Metamucil’s active ingredient is psyllium husk, a natural fiber derived from the Plantago ovata plant.
Effect: Psyllium swells and forms a gel when mixed with liquid, softening stool and supporting regularity. It’s well-known for constipation relief and can also support heart health as part of a healthy diet.
Key Benefits of Metamucil:
- Highly effective for constipation relief
- May help lower cholesterol
- Can promote fullness, which may aid weight management
Key Differences: Citrucel vs Metamucil
Both support digestive health, but there are important differences:
- Fiber source: Methylcellulose (Citrucel) vs psyllium husk (Metamucil)
- Gas/bloating: Non-fermentable methylcellulose typically causes less gas
- Calories/carbs: Many methylcellulose options are lower in calories than sweetened psyllium blends
- Formulations: Products may include sweeteners or flavors—check labels if you’re limiting sugar
- Cost: Psyllium name brands can be pricier; methylcellulose generics often save money
- Taste/mixability: Methylcellulose is often reported to dissolve more smoothly in water
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which One Is Better?
It depends on your goals and tolerance:
Citrucel might be your preferred choice if you:
- Have a sensitive stomach or IBS
- Are prone to gas or bloating
- Prefer a smoother, easier-to-mix texture
Metamucil could be a better fit if you:
- Want extra stool bulk for constipation relief
- Are targeting cholesterol support alongside regularity
- Prefer a plant-based (psyllium) fiber source
Pro tip: Start low and go slow, increase fluids, and use these guides for a better experience: How to Make Citrucel Taste Better and How to Mix Citrucel Without Clumps.
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which Is Better for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Choosing between methylcellulose and psyllium for IBS depends on your symptoms and tolerance:
Citrucel (Methylcellulose)
- Type: Non-fermentable; typically less gas
- How it works: Forms a gel, softens stool, eases passage
- Best for: Users bothered by bloating and gas
- Common use: Constipation-predominant IBS (IBS-C)
Metamucil (Psyllium Husk)
- Type: Fermentable; may cause gas initially
- How it works: Adds bulk and retains water in stool
- Best for: IBS-M or IBS-D where bulking helps consistency
- Common use: Overall digestive regularity
Which Is Better for IBS?
- IBS-C: Both may help; methylcellulose often preferred if gas is a concern
- IBS-D: Psyllium may help bulk stool (start low to reduce side effects)
- IBS-M: Psyllium is frequently recommended for balancing swings
Personal Tolerance Matters
Each gut is different. Try one at a time with plenty of water and adjust dose gradually. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting a new fiber supplement, especially if you have IBS or other GI conditions.
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which Is Right for You?
The choice between Citrucel and Metamucil ultimately depends on your sensitivity to gas, your need for stool bulk, and your broader health goals. Many with gas/bloating prefer methylcellulose; those prioritizing extra bulk or heart-health benefits may lean toward psyllium. When in doubt, consult a clinician or pharmacist for personalized guidance.
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Products Mentioned in this Blog Post
Citrucel Methylcellulose Powder - 30 oz | Orange Flavor (4 Pack)
$129.99
Citrucel Methylcellulose Powder – 30 oz Orange Flavor (4 Pack) ⚠️ Hope for a Final Batch! Haleon has officially discontinued Citrucel with Sugar. We have...… read more
Major Fiber Therapy Methylcellulose Powder – 16 oz | Compare to Citrucel
$13.99
Major Fiber Therapy Powder – Methylcellulose 16 oz Orange Flavor | Compare to Citrucel® This is the direct generic replacement for the original Citrucel® Powder...… read more
Major Fiber Therapy Methylcellulose Powder – 16 oz | Compare to Citrucel (2 Pack)
$26.99
Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor – 16 oz (2 Pack) | Compare to Citrucel® This is the direct generic replacement for the original...… read more
Major Fiber Therapy Methylcellulose Powder – 16 oz | Compare to Citrucel (4 Pack)
$39.99
Major Fiber Therapy Powder – Methylcellulose 16 oz Orange Flavor (4 Pack) | Compare to Citrucel® This is the direct generic replacement for the original...… read more
GoodSense Psyllium Fiber Powder – 30.4 oz | Compare to Metamucil
$24.99
GoodSense Psyllium Fiber Powder – 30.4 oz | Compare to Metamucil Powder Compare to the active ingredient in Metamucil®. GoodSense Psyllium Fiber Powder provides soluble...… read more
GoodSense Psyllium Fiber Powder Sugar Free – 15 oz | Compare to Metamucil
$19.99
GoodSense Psyllium Fiber Powder Sugar Free – 15 oz | Compare to Metamucil® GoodSense Psyllium Fiber Powder Sugar Free is a daily fiber supplement designed...… read more
Additional Information on Citrucel
- Citrucel Shortage & the Best Generic Alternative
- How to Make Citrucel Taste Better
- How to Mix Citrucel Without Clumps
- Citrucel Generic Alternatives (Full Guide)
Save Money with Top-Rated Generics
- Citrucel (methylcellulose): Major Fiber Therapy Methylcellulose Powder – 16 oz | Compare to Citrucel
- Metamucil (psyllium): Rugby Reguloid Sugar-Free Psyllium Husk Powder
About Xeteor
xeteor.com, founded in Las Vegas in 2018, is a trusted online guide and curated retailer for generic over-the-counter (OTC) medications. We operate like a family-owned business, thoughtfully selecting and offering a portfolio of brands that includes premium generics like GoodSense and Foster & Thrive, as well as trusted options such as Major Pharmaceuticals, Rugby Laboratories, Oncor Pharmaceuticals, and CareSens. Recognized as a Top Rated seller on Trustpilot, Google, eBay, Amazon, and Walmart, we’re a trusted authority focused on building brand trust and earning consumer loyalty. Our mission is to empower you with reliable products and educational content, all backed by a U.S.-based team that offers real human support and secure, senior-preferred payment options.
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment.
FAQs
Is Citrucel better than Metamucil for IBS?
Citrucel may be better for people with IBS who are sensitive to gas or bloating. It contains methylcellulose, a non-fermentable fiber, which is less likely to cause digestive discomfort compared to Metamucil’s psyllium fiber.
Which is more gentle, Citrucel or Metamucil?
Citrucel is generally considered the more gentle option because it doesn’t ferment in the gut. This makes it a better choice for those with sensitive stomachs or prone to bloating.
Does Citrucel cause gas?
Citrucel is less likely to cause gas than many other fiber supplements because it uses methylcellulose, a non-fermentable fiber.
Can Metamucil help with diarrhea and constipation?
Yes, Metamucil's psyllium husk fiber can help with both constipation and diarrhea. It adds bulk to the stool, helping regulate bowel movements for those with mixed IBS symptoms.
Is there a generic alternative to Citrucel?
Yes, Major Fiber Therapy is a widely used generic alternative to Citrucel. It contains the same active ingredient: methylcellulose.
Is Metamucil more expensive than Citrucel?
Metamucil is typically more expensive than Citrucel, especially when comparing brand-name versions. Generic alternatives like Rugby Reguloid can offer cost savings.
