Comparison of the role of fiber in the treatment of functional constipation in children and adults

9 . It suggested that fiber supplements are moderately effective, but can cause bloating. This review did not include studies in children, nor did it include all the fiber types. Therefore, to reduce ABSTRACT Functional constipation (FC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders in children and adults. Physicians commonly recommend dietary interventions for its treatment including increasing water and fiber intake. Greater fiber intake can be achieved through the consumption of foods rich in dietary fiber, or taken in supplemental form. In addition to naturally occurring fibers in food, the Food and Drug Administration has approved over 14 isolated or synthetic fibers for use. This review discusses the evidence for various fiber types for the treatment of FC in children and adults.