Psyllium Fiber

These instructions are for patients who may benefit from taking psyllium fiber to help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels.

Important information:

  • Psyllium fiber is a form of soluble fiber that occurs naturally in the seeds of the psyllium plant.

  • Eating psyllium fiber can help lower LDL cholesterol levels.

  • Psyllium fiber supplements may be recommended for children whose LDL levels do not improve with dietary changes.

  • The recommended dose to help lower LDL cholesterol is 6 grams per day for children 2-12 years old and 12 grams per day for those older than 12 years old.

Instructions for taking psyllium supplements:

  • Psyllium products are available in powder, capsules, and fiber thins. Capsules are not recommended because they do not contain enough psyllium per serving.

  • The most common product is Metamucil®, although generic brands are available.

  • Read the labels carefully. Look for "psyllium" as the main ingredient and watch out for added sugars.

  • Drink plenty of water when taking psyllium.

Name of Supplement

Serving Size

Grams of Psyllium Fiber per Serving

Grams of Added Sugar per Serving

Metamucil Sugar Free Powder, Unflavored, Orange, Lemonade, and Berry

1 teaspoon

3

0

Metamucil Real Sugar Powder, Unflavored

1 teaspoon

3

4

Metamucil Real Sugar Powder, Orange

1 Tablespoon

3

8

Metamucil Powder Singles, Sugar Free Orange

1 packet

3

0

Metamucil Powder Singles, Real Sugar Orange

1 packet

3

8

Vitamin Shoppe® Psyllium Husk Powder

1 teaspoon

3

0

Konsyl® Daily Psyllium Powder

1 teaspoon

5

0

Metamucil Fiber Thins, variety of flavors

1 packet

4-5

6

 

Reviewed July 2025 by Kayla Cubbage, RD