How is Florasophy different from drug store fiber supplements?
With the endless options for supplemental fiber on the market today, we are often asked why someone would switch from their drug store brand to Florasophy. We’ve broken it down so you can quickly assess your options and make the best decision for your health.
Florasophy's ingredients
Florasophy was designed with diversity in mind to give your body different fibers that provide different, but equally important, benefits. Plus, Megan designed Florasophy as an organic product to support and emphasize the detox benefits (why put toxins into a product that naturally boosts detox?).
Acacia fiber
Acacia has been shown to reduce blood lipid levels, visceral fat, and systolic blood pressure. Acacia is also a prebiotic for your gut microbes, increasing production of short-chain fatty acids [17].
Chia seeds
Chia seeds provide healthy polyunsaturated fats, protein, and soluble fiber. Chia seeds have been shown to significantly reduce waist circumference and improve glycemic control and satiety.
Konjac root (Glucomannan)
Konjac (Glucomannan) has been shown to significantly reduce body weight, blood lipid levels, and average blood sugar while boosting insulin sensitivity because it slows absorption of carbs, keeps you fuller longer while binding cholesterol, estrogen and toxins in the gut. Konjac has been found to improve acne by reducing the acne-stimulating bacterium, Propionibacterium.
Partially hydrolyzed guar gum
Partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG), trademarked as SunfiberⓇ, is a resistant starch that forms a gel when hydrated. It’s been shown to effectively improve symptoms of IBD-D after three months of use, while also improving chronic constipation without the negative side effect. PHGG positively impacts the microbiome, increasing levels of short-chain fatty acids, Lactobacilli, and Bifidobacteria. PHGG is also a winner for supporting cardiovascular health, dropping cholesterol levels over time.
Psyllium husk
Psyllium husk powder is ubiquitous in fiber supplementation due to its low cost and general tolerability. Psyllium husk can be used to promote regularity because it boosts viscosity of stool, while also resolving loose stool due to its absorptive qualities. In that way, psyllium husk is “adaptogenic.” Psyllium has profound beneficial effects on the microbiota, while also providing improved satiety, driving weight loss and boosting heart health due to drops in cholesterol and blood pressure.
Drug store brands' ingredients
Most drug store brands are 1-ingredient options ranging from pure psyllium to more potentially inflammatory options like wheat dextrin and methylcellulose. Let’s take a closer look:
Psyllium
We love psyllium as much as the next guy, and that’s why it’s included in most of our blends. However, by itself, its power is limited. Just like every aspect of our diet, diversity is key. By consuming a psyllium-only fiber, you may make constipation worse, miss the opportunity for better microbiome support and even increase the risk of dehydration due to its very absorptive qualities.
Wheat dextrin
While wheat dextrin can support motility, it has some potential downsides that consumers need to be aware of. For instance, it doesn't form into a gel so it’s less effective for constipation. And while it may be labeled gluten-free, there are typically trace amounts of gluten so it’s not appropriate for sensitive people. It doesn't feed your microbes and can even increase gas and bloating. Moreover, it does not boost satiety so it’s not great for weight management, blood sugar balance and metabolism. Lastly, it’s not a winner for heart health or hormone health.
Takeaway
Not all fibers are created equal. While all of these fibers fall into the “soluble” category, as you can see, they have different superpowers in the body. Knowing the benefits and risks means you can make a wise choice for your health goals. We believe that diversity is essential and supplements should be safe, responsible and add to your overall well-being today, and in the future!
About Megan Barnett, MS, CNS
Megan Barnett, MS, CNS is a clinical nutritionist, research writer, public speaker and educator with over ten years in the field of nutrition science and functional medicine. She co-owns BioLounge, a functional medicine clinic in Portland, Oregon, and she is the co-founder and product developer of Florasophy organic soluble fiber blends. She sits on the board of directors for the American Nutrition Association where she supports the credentialing and professional development of her colleagues while providing leadership in the treatment and prevention of disease using evidence-based nutrition science.