@jackiem95 I have been having a problem with loose stools also, and Metamucil and Citrucel have both been recommended. According to my PCP, they add bulk which supposedly firms the stools. Frankly, I did not have success with either, and I had minor success with Imodium. I have come to realize that I must have IBS-D or something like it. Initially I thought it was a lactose intolerance but I have cut out lactose and still had a problem, albeit a lesser problem, so obviously it was not just the lactose that was causing my problem. I have not yet figured out what else is.
I will have to look into the FODMAP diet, perhaps that will help. I will be interested in hearing if you find any solution to this problem.
This type of problem really does impact lifestyle, keeping a person at home.
JK

I think @sue225 @pjss48 and @kariulrich might have something valuable to add to this discussion about problems with constipation, acid relux, IBS and managing digestive issues with meds and diet. So hard to find the right balance that works.

@jackiem95 I can certainly sympathize with your problem as I've had three surgeries of the upper digestive tract and I'm always trying to figure out a diet that will work to keep my system regulated, but not work so well as to cause diarrhea. You mentioned Miralax and referred to it as a "heavy duty laxative" however, it is not a laxative but a stool softener. Have you ever tried it? There are other stool softeners like Colace (that is the brand name but it is available as a generic) It does take a few days of treatment before you notice a difference.

A balanced diet is always important as well as exercises, especially after eating. Stretches and bending at the waist, walking, etc. can also be good ways to prevent and/or treat constipation. Also, drinking lots of water is important as well. I have heard of some members who do self-massage on the abdomen, massaging in a clock-wise manner.

I suppose, as @colleenyoung said, you have to keep working to find the right balance that will work for you.

Have you tried mild exercises after eating?

Linzess works wonders, with no gas! Comes in different strengths. Easy capsule to take each morning.

In Canada, its called Constella, or linaclotide. Yes, it works. However, I got very bloated and had pain that kept me up most of the night. Afraid to take it again. (my gastroenterologist said you could take it on an as needed basis instead of everyday). There are no drugs without side effects. There are just different bodies reacting differently to medications.

Recommend prune juice with every meal.

There's a bottle in the frig 😝...may have to switch to dried prunes.

Miralax has not caused too many problems like diarrhea unless I ate a lot of cooked spinach or greens. My urology doctor (she is the head of the urology department at Baptist Hospital in Winston Salem, NC) had me start on just a little bit of Miralax and a serving of oatmeal to add bulk (Metamucil gives me gas). Add a little bit of Miralax until you find the right balance. I do use an extra dose if I have some cheese or chocolate which constipates me. Hope this helps.

@coralbells1 check out heathers website. https://www.heatherstummycare.com

She has special fiber and try her tummy tamer tablets with meals Tummy tamers have peppermint, ginger and Finnell which calm things down a lot as you digest. Her products are for sale there or on amazon. Good luck.

I find fennel teeth tummy soothing.