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Disclaimer: This article only shows the benefits of psyllium and does not claim that it can cure any illness. You need to consult your doctor first before taking any supplements, especially if you’re using medications or other supplements.
Psyllium husk has the potential to help support digestion and regularity, along with other health benefits from consuming this powerful fiber.
India is the largest psyllium husk producer today. It is also known as ‘Isabgol’. In Sanskrit, ‘asp’ and ‘ghol’ means ‘horse flower’.
The seed and husk have been used traditionally in India, Europe, China and the United States to support digestive health due to both the soluble and insoluble fiber content.
Psyllium husk is available in different forms. You can find it in the form of capsules or powder sold by supplement stores such as Sunergetic Products.
The husk is also used in multiple food products as a thickener, especially in high fiber cereals and ice cream.
How Does Psyllium Husk Work?
Surveys have shown that the fiber content in the American diet may be lacking.
Psyllium husk is a form of soluble fiber made from the plantago ovata plant. It is considered a bulk forming laxative. Psyllium husk has great water solubility, it can help soak up water in the gut to support regularity.
Unlike some fiber sources, the body typically tolerates Psyllium husk well.
Fascinating Health Benefits Of Using Psyllium Husk
FDA has not approved psyllium husk for medical use and does not approve any dietary supplement, but studies show that it may help support regularity, digestive health and intestinal health.
Supports Regularity
Psyllium husk is a convenient way to increase dietary fiber intake. Psyllium has the ability to swell up to 50 times its initial volume when added to liquid.
This bulking action may play an important role in supporting regulatory and gastrointestinal health.
Supports Intestinal Health
Psyllium husk supplementation helps support intestinal health and it’s strongly recommended that people drink water simultaneously when taking psyllium husk.
Supports Cardiovascular Health
In multiple studies, psyllium husk or fiber has shown promising cardiovascular health benefits. Psyllium husk is a powerful ingredient to help support heart health.
Supports Healthy Weight Management
Psyllium husk may increase the feeling of fullness and support weight management.
A study showed that 20 grams of Psyllium husk per day may help support healthy weight management.
Capsules Versus Powder
Some consumers prefer capsules because they are tasteless and more convenient. Many powders have poor taste and are hard to mix.
With Psyllium husk capsules, you get the benefits in a much easier form.
Side Effects Of Psyllium Husk
Common discomfort psyllium husk may cause for some people is temporary and mild.
- Allergic reaction
- Some medications
The studies and research associated with psyllium husk are limited.
When you consider a therapy using psyllium husk it’s wise to discuss it with your doctor.
Dosage Recommendation
- For healthy digestion – Adults: 2.5 g to 30 g per day divided into doses. Children: [6-11 years] 1.25 g to 15 g per day divided into doses.
- For cardiovascular support – 20.4 g per day.
- For blood sugar support – 10 g twice per day.
- For weight management – 10.2 g per day.
Psyllium is hard to consume when added to a drink. If you do so, then drink it fast, before it thickens.
It’s a better choice to choose capsules, if you are not comfortable with the powder form.
A Word of Caution
Make sure to consult your doctor before taking a psyllium husk.
Some chemicals within the psyllium husk can have negative effects on your body, especially if you’re on medication.