Fiber products like Metamucil or just plain psyllium are fantastic if you have strong peristalsis. If not, the product tends to stay in the colon too long and can cause problems. I used to use psyllium all the time, but some nerve damage has affected my colon and now it causes pain, cramping and bloating. But, if it works for you, go for it. There are so many variables with the bowels there there is no one size fits all solution. Keep preaching the water, that makes a world of difference!.