My gastroenterologist recommended I supplement my diet with additional fiber, and she specifically suggested that Benefiber would be great because it dissolves completely in water and has added benefits for women. She said that it was gluten free, so I picked some up at the store later that day. However, when I got it home, I noticed both that the first ingredient listed was “wheat dextrin” (red flag!), and it also claimed that it was “Gluten Free, less than 10 ppm gluten.” I don’t know about you, but this made me more than a little uncomfortable. So, I checked out their website, which again claims that the product is gluten free but also states “people who experience gluten intolerance should not consume any products, including Benefiber, that contain any level of gluten.” What is the point of labeling a product as gluten free if it’s not safe for those with celiac disease? This is misleading marketing. The fine print message: don’t use Benefiber if you have celiac disease!
Instead, use Metamucil powder or capsules. The gluten-free statement on their website and ingredient list are consistent. I recommend mixing the orange flavor with orange juice.
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Well, if that isn’t misleading! I wouldn’t do the Benefiber either!
That is frustrating. I’m glad you noticed it though.
No kidding! I’m so glad that I double-checked the ingredient list before taking it rather than trusting the product statement on the outside of the Benefiber container. Thanks for your comments!
I have IBS for two or three years and I am suspected celiac for 9 months (although it is looking more certain that I am definitely celiac). I have used GNC psyllium “colon care” which works quite well as their products are gluten and many other substances free. However, I don’t like that GNC product does not dissolve so well and someone suggested Benefiber for that. Well, I tried the old product but it was expired (not a good thing) and I also bought their new formulation that states that is gluten free and boy have my IG tract been in such turmoil. I am definitely going back to GNC even if I have to put up with grit! They have an unflavored type that works with any juice. I agree the label in Benefiber is very misleading indeed….
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