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?
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- Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which Is Better for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
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- 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.com
- FAQs
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which One Should You Choose?
If you're thinking about adding a fiber supplement to your daily routine, you’ve probably come across Citrucel vs Metamucil as the two most talked-about options. Both are popular and effective for promoting digestive health—but they work in different ways. Choosing the right one depends on your digestive sensitivity, health goals, and personal preferences.
In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between Citrucel and Metamucil—covering fiber types, side effects, bloating concerns, and cost—so you can confidently pick the supplement that fits your needs.
Why Fiber Supplements Matter
Dietary fiber plays a vital role in digestion. It helps regulate bowel movements, eases constipation, supports weight management, and even contributes to heart health. If you're not getting enough fiber from food alone, supplements like Metamucil or Citrucel can help fill the gap—without major changes to your diet.
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Citrucel | Metamucil |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber Type | Methylcellulose (synthetic, soluble) | Psyllium husk (natural, soluble + insoluble) |
| Fermentable? | No – less gas production | Yes – may cause gas or bloating |
| Bloating Risk | Low | Moderate to high |
| Digestive Sensitivity | Better for IBS or sensitive stomachs | May trigger bloating in some users |
| Sugar-Free Options | Yes | Yes |
| How It Works | Forms gel in intestines to ease stool passage | Adds bulk and retains water in stool |
| Best For | People with gas sensitivity or IBS | People needing extra bulk for constipation relief |
| Generic Alternative | Major Fiber Therapy | Rugby Psyllium Fiber Powder |
Citrucel: The Gentle Fiber Supplement
Composition: Citrucel contains methylcellulose, a synthetic, non-fermentable soluble fiber.
Effect: Citrucel absorbs water in the intestines, forming a gel-like substance that promotes regular bowel movements. Its gentle nature makes it a good option for individuals with sensitive digestive systems.
Key Benefits of Citrucel:
- Suitable for individuals who are prone to gas or bloating
- Less likely to cause gas compared to psyllium-based supplements
- May be easier on people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Metamucil: The Psyllium Fiber Powerhouse
Composition: Metamucil's active ingredient is psyllium husk, a natural, highly soluble fiber derived from the Plantago ovata plant.
Effect: Psyllium fiber swells and forms a gel when mixed with liquid. This gel softens the stool and promotes regular bowel movements. Psyllium is also known for its effectiveness in addressing constipation and supporting heart health.
Key Benefits of Metamucil:
- Highly effective at relieving constipation
- Can help lower cholesterol levels
- Creates a feeling of fullness, which may aid in weight management
Key Differences: Citrucel vs Metamucil
While both supplements promote digestive health, there are several important differences between Citrucel and Metamucil:
- Fiber source: Methylcellulose (Citrucel) vs Psyllium husk (Metamucil)
- Fermentability: Citrucel is non-fermentable, leading to less gas
- Calories and carbs: Citrucel has none; Metamucil contains about 40 calories and 9g carbs per serving
- Other ingredients: Citrucel typically contains only methylcellulose, while Metamucil may include sugars, flavoring, and coloring
- Cost: Metamucil is usually more expensive than Citrucel or its generics
- Taste and mixability: Citrucel is often reported to have a smoother taste and dissolve more easily in water
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which One Is Better?
The choice between Citrucel and Metamucil often comes down to personal preferences and specific health needs:
Citrucel might be your preferred choice if you:
- Have a sensitive stomach
- Are prone to gas or bloating
- Experience digestive discomfort or have IBS
Metamucil could be a better fit if you:
- Need strong support for constipation relief
- Want additional benefits like cholesterol reduction
- Are looking for a natural source of fiber (psyllium)
Reminder: Both Citrucel and Metamucil should be used as directed by a healthcare professional—especially if you have underlying conditions. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist to find the best fiber supplement for your individual needs.
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which Is Better for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Choosing between Citrucel (methylcellulose) and Metamucil (psyllium husk) for managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) depends on your specific symptoms and how your body reacts to each fiber supplement. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:
Citrucel (Methylcellulose)
- Type of Fiber: Non-fermentable, meaning it doesn't cause gas
- How It Works: Absorbs water to form a gel-like substance, helping to soften stool and ease passage
- Best For: Individuals who experience bloating and gas
- Common Uses: Primarily used for constipation relief
Metamucil (Psyllium Husk)
- Type of Fiber: Fermentable, which may cause gas and bloating in some people
- How It Works: Absorbs water and adds bulk to the stool, helping to regulate bowel movements
- Best For: Managing both constipation and diarrhea, but may cause gas initially
- Common Uses: Recommended for overall digestive health, including IBS-C and IBS-D
Which Is Better for IBS?
- IBS-C (Constipation-predominant): Both supplements may help. Citrucel may be preferred if gas and bloating are concerns.
- IBS-D (Diarrhea-predominant): Metamucil can help with bulking stool. Start with a low dose to minimize side effects.
- IBS-M (Mixed symptoms): Metamucil is often recommended due to its ability to balance both constipation and diarrhea.
Personal Tolerance Matters
Everyone’s digestive system reacts differently. You may need to try both supplements to see which works best for your symptoms. Start with a low dose and gradually increase to reduce the risk of side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new fiber supplement—especially if you have IBS or other gastrointestinal conditions.
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Which Is Right for You?
The choice between Citrucel and Metamucil ultimately depends on your individual health needs and how your body responds to different types of fiber. While Citrucel is known for its gentle, non-fermentable nature—ideal for those with gas or bloating—Metamucil offers additional benefits like cholesterol reduction and appetite control.
Before starting either supplement, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure you're choosing the product that aligns best with your symptoms and health goals.
Both fiber supplements are excellent choices for supporting digestive health. Your decision may come down to sensitivity to gas, specific GI concerns like IBS, or other wellness goals like heart health or weight management.
Citrucel vs Metamucil: Products Mentioned in this Blog Post
Citrucel Methylcellulose Powder - 30 oz | Orange Flavor (4 Pack)
$109.99
Citrucel Methylcellulose Powder - 30 oz | Orange Flavor (4 Pack) This item CONTAINS sugar! What will I receive? 4 bottles of Citrucel Methylcellulose Powder -...… read more
Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel
$13.99
Relieves constipation (irregularity) and helps to restore and maintain regularity. Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel Compare to the active...… read more
Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel (2 Pack)
$24.98
Relieves constipation (irregularity) and helps to restore and maintain regularity. Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel Compare to the active...… read more
Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel (4 Pack)
$39.96
Relieves constipation (irregularity) and helps to restore and maintain regularity. Major Fiber Therapy Powder Methylcellulose Orange Flavor - 16oz | Citrucel Compare to the active...… read more
Rugby Reguloid Sugar Free Psyllium Husk Powder - 15 oz | Metamucil
$19.99
Rugby Reguloid Sugar-Free Psyllium Husk Powder - a sugar free alternative to Metamucil. It's perfect for curbing hunger, maintaining blood sugar, lowering cholesterol, and promoting digestive...… read more
Rugby Reguloid Unflavored Psyllium Husk Powder - 19 oz | Metamucil
$17.99
Rugby Reguloid Unflavored Constipation Relief Powder is a natural dietary fiber supplement that helps relieve occasional constipation and promote regularity. It is made from psyllium...… read more
Additional Information on Citrucel
- Citrucel Shortage: Why It’s Happening and What You Can Do
- Citrucel: 10 Ways to Make It Taste Better
- How to Mix Citrucel Without Clumps: Easy Tips and Tricks
- Citrucel Shortage? Why Major Fiber Therapy Is the Best Generic
Save Money with Top-Rated Generics
- Citrucel: Major Fiber Therapy Methylcellulose Orange Flavored Powder
- Metamucil: Rugby Reguloid Sugar-Free Psyllium Husk Powder
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Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this post.
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.
