This is a stupid question to most of you I'm sure. I've been doing WW forever and as much as they promote fiber I should know this. Okay, I know that fiber fills you up helps you stay full. I know that it isn't absorbed and somehow helps with digestion.
What I'm wondering about is the powders like metamusil(sp?) and all those. I'm taking some as part of a cleansing thing that I'm doing. It says its a laxative. I thought it was dangerous to take those unless you had to. Or is that just ex-lax and stuff? I don't eat alot of fiber and don't know anything about these things.
Thanks for your help.

Fiber is a laxative .. It helps form bulk in the stool. I acts like a broom and cleans the digestive track. It is also used for pepole that have stool that is too soft for the same reason.. it forms bulk and pulls excess water out.

All that aside. The over the counter fibers are fine. make sure you drink PLENTY of water.

There are three types of products one might buy as "laxatives." One is a bulk-forming product, such as fiberall, metamucil, etc. The second type would be a stool softener (Colace is one of these). The third type--the one that's probably a good idea to avoid if you don't need it--is a stimulant laxative (Ex-lax, Dulcolax). The stimulant laxatives actually stimulate the smooth muscle of the bowel. The risk here is that the bowel gets accustomed to them and then won't move on its own.

I don't think there's any reason to fear fiber unless your doctor has told you to avoid it.