Psyllium is a high-fiber seed that can aid in regular bowel movements, reduced bloating, internal cleansing, reduced cholesterol, and reduced flatulence. It can also aid in weight loss and should be taken with plenty of water. Those with allergies or certain medical conditions should avoid it.
Psyllium is a type of seed that grows on the Plantago psyllium plant, which is found in the Middle East. Some people eat the husk, or outside of the seed, as a form of fiber. It has a very high fiber count compared to other types of grains or foods. Some of the most common psyllium benefits include regular bowel movements, reduced bloating, internal cleansing, reduced cholesterol, and reduced flatulence.
The husk part of psyllium is almost all fiber, making it a great way to regulate the digestive system. Fiber is a necessary part of a healthy diet. It pushes food through the colon quickly and makes stool bulky and soft. If regular bowel movements do not occur daily, a person could develop constipation or diarrhea.
A high fiber diet also lowers cholesterol by removing fat from the body. There are two types of cholesterol: high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL). LDL is the “bad” cholesterol that fiber lowers. Eating psyllium husks, along with a low-fat diet, is a good way to stay healthy.
A side effect of a high fiber diet is weight loss. People who want to lose fat may benefit from eating more fiber, as it fills the stomach and reduces hunger pangs. Fiber also lowers a person’s blood sugar level. High blood sugar levels are linked to weight gain and appetite. Replacing calories with fiber is an easy way to get all of these psyllium benefits.
Other psyllium benefits include reduced flatulence and bloating. It keeps food moving through the system instead of allowing it to sit in the intestines and cause problems. Psyllium should be ingested with plenty of water, because if water is not consumed, the husks can cause cramps and constipation. Adults should drink six to eight glasses of water every day, especially if they eat psyllium husks or other high-fiber foods.
Some people are allergic to psyllium and should never eat the husks. People who have this allergy go into anaphylactic shock if they ingest psyllium particles. People who have diverticulosis of the colon should also avoid psyllium, as the tiny husks can get caught in the folds of the intestines. Those who have had recent intestinal surgery should also stay away from psyllium.
When starting to take psyllium, one should start with small doses. If there are no side effects, it is okay to increase the dosage. However, it can take several weeks to reach a regular dose and get all the desired psyllium benefits.
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