Frequently Asked Questions
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What happens in my body when I take OptiFibre®? How long does it take to work?
Partially hydrolysed guar gum (PHGG) is the only ingredient in OptiFibre® and has 2 clinically proven* effects:
1. A short-term laxative effect to soften stools and increase their frequency. Initial effects felt from 48 to 72 hours (2) (depending on personal sensitivity).
2. A long-term effect that rebalances the gut microbiota in those who are constipated. The PHGG in OptiFibre® encourages colonic activity thanks to its prebiotic effect.
PHGG therefore works naturally, physiologically and gradually. It stimulates normal colon function.2
Once in the intestine, the PHGG in OptiFibre® helps hydrate stools and becomes a source of energy for colon cells to effectively, gently and gradually stimulate digestive transit. PHGG also develops gut flora and nourishes the microbiota (bifidobacteria naturally present in the colon) thanks to its prebiotic effect which increases levels of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus.2
OptiFibre® should be used at the first sign of discomfort and use should be gradual.
*Takahashi et al. J. Nutr. Sci. Vitaminol. 1994; 40: 256. 2. Okubo et al. Biosci. Biotech. Biochem. 1994; 58: 366. 3. Carlson et al. Anaerobe. 2016; 42: 62. *PHGG: Partially hydrolysed guar gum.
How long does it take to rebalance the gut flora?
OptiFibre® should be taken for at least 14 days to rebalance gut flora and maintain colonic activity in those who are constipated. Because OptiFibre® is natural, it can be used for an extended period if this is required and recommended by your medical professional. It is not addictive.
Can I use another laxative at the same time?
Because OptiFibre® is a prebiotic, non-addictive, 100%-plant-origin fibre, it can be used in the short- or long-term as an alternative or supplement to conventional laxatives. Use under medical supervision. Ask your pharmacist for advice.
Does OptiFibre® have any side effects?
If you are planning on increasing the amount of fibre in your daily diet by consuming more fruit, vegetables or wholefoods, you should do this gradually to prevent bloating. This also applies to OptiFibre®, which only contains partially hydrolysed guar gum. Use it as recommended to limit the risk of bloating. If you do experience bloating, reduce the dosage before gradually increasing it. Use under medical supervision. Ask your pharmacist for advice.
Because OptiFibre® is a prebiotic, non-addictive, 100%-plant-origin fibre, it can be used in the short- or long-term as an alternative to conventional laxatives. OptiFibre® does not affect the absorption of other nutrients or medicines. The recommended dose may vary depending on your personal sensitivity.
Does OptiFibre® leave you gassy or with a swollen stomach?
OptiFibre® can sometimes lead to bloating in sensitive individuals.
To avoid the risk of bloating, carefully follow the usage advice and gradually increase the dosage (when required) by 1 extra dose every 3 days (spread out over the day). Spread out your intake over the day. If you do experience bloating, reduce the dosage before gradually increasing it.
Does OptiFibre® work like a prebiotic?
OptiFibre® contains PHGG: a prebiotic fibre that encourages the gut flora to develop. This stimulates colonic activity and increases levels of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus in the colon.
Will digestive transit stay regular when I stop taking OptiFibre®?
OptiFibre® should be added to a balanced diet containing plenty of fibre. Fibre is found in wholegrains (brown rice, brown bread, wholegrain cereals, wholewheat pasta, etc.) and in fruit and vegetables.
OptiFibre® is not a substitute for an adequate balanced diet, which is why it can't guarantee long-term normal digestive transit on its own.
OptiFibre®’s natural, non-addictive effects provide constipated patients with enough regular dietary fibre to meet their nutritional needs.
Use under medical supervision. Ask your pharmacist for advice.