Psyllium fiber is a bulk-forming laxative and water-soluble fiber commonly used to treat constipation or diarrhea. It is also added to weight loss supplements as an appetite suppressant. Psyllium fiber is available in capsules or powder, but users should drink plenty of water to prevent swelling in the throat. It is important to follow warnings associated with taking fiber supplements.
Psyllium fiber is a mixture of bulk-forming laxatives and water-soluble fiber that is typically used to treat constipation or diarrhea. Some weight loss supplements also include psyllium powder as an appetite suppressant. The supplement works by absorbing water in the intestine forming bulk waste. The bulk waste then passes through the intestine and leaves the body during a regular bowel movement.
There are over 200 plant species used to create psyllium fiber for dietary uses. Natural fiber is commonly added to breakfast cereals, high-fiber snacks, and fiber powders. The daily fiber recommendations for men and women under the age of 50 are 25 grams (g) and 38 g, respectively. Over age 50, the recommendations increase to 30 g for women and decrease to 30 g for men. Most people in the US consume less than the daily recommendations.
The most common use for psyllium fiber is as a laxative or anti-diarrheal supplement. As a bulk-forming laxative, users should consume psyllium fiber with at least eight ounces of water. Water intake should also be increased throughout the day to prevent constipation. Bulk-forming laxatives can only treat constipation if enough water is available to help remove waste from the body.
Psyllium products can also relieve diarrhea. Excess water in the intestine, a common cause of diarrhea, can be absorbed by psyllium fiber. In this way, the fiber works to regulate bowel movements rather than have a laxative effect. Waste can also leave the body more slowly when fiber is consumed.
Weight loss supplements add psyllium fiber to formulas to decrease hunger. However, there are no scientific studies to support this claim. Water is absorbed in the intestine and not in the stomach. Glucomannan, another form of fiber, absorbs water in the stomach. Clinical studies support the use of water-soluble fiber to lower bad cholesterol and regulate blood sugar levels.
Psyllium fiber supplements are available as capsules and as a powder. The capsules are taken with water, while the powder is mixed with water or juice and consumed. Warnings on fiber supplements advise users to drink plenty of water to prevent psyllium from swelling up in the throat. If it expands in the throat, suffocation or suffocation may occur.
There are warnings associated with taking fiber supplements. Users should not take fiber within an hour of taking prescription drugs. People who suffer from esophageal stricture, or a narrowed esophagus, should not take psyllium powder. Also, the product should not be given to children unless directed by a doctor.
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