Psyllium husk is a form of fiber produced from the husks of the seeds of plant called Plantago ovata plant’s . It is commonly known as ispaghula husk or bhusi .

5 Impressive Health Benefits of Psyllium Husk

  • Relieves Constipation and Diarrhea.
  • Lowers Cholesterol.
  • Helps Manage Blood Sugar.
  • Improves Heart Health & Blood Pressure.
  • Healthy Weight Management.

It’s most commonly used as a GI laxative. However research shows that taking psyllium is beneficial to many parts of the human body, including the heart and the pancreas.

Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative mainly due to soluble fibre action. This means it soaks up water in your gut , increases stool content and makes them softer and hence makes bowel movements much easier. It also helps promote regularity without increasing flatulence. It can be used as a one-off to ease constipation, or it can be added to your diet to help promote regularity and overall digestive health.

Besides keeping your bowel movements regular  psyllium has the ability to soften your stool. This can come in handy with short-term ailments, such as constipation. Used in this way, it can prevent complications of constipation, such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Preliminary research shows that psyllium may help the painful symptoms associated with these conditions. Since there is no real scientific consensus, talk to your doctor to see if psyllium could help you.

Caradiac or Heart health

Research has shown that taking soluble fiber can help people manage their cholesterol levels. Proper cholesterol regulation is important for everyone, but vital for people over the age of 50 or those at risk of heart disease especially indians. One study shows that at least 6 weeks of daily psyllium intake is an effective way for people who are obese or overweight to lower their cholesterol with very few side effects.

If you’ve been told that you need to watch your cholesterol, ask your doctor if adding psyllium to a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet will help you.

High cholesterol is merely one way a bad diet can affect your heart. Numerous studies have shown that fiber like psyllium, taken as part of a healthy diet, can help lower a person’s risk of heart disease. Psyllium can affect your heart by lowering blood pressure, improving lipid levels, and strengthening heart muscle.

Maintaining a healthy weight is a concern for many people, especially those with a chronic condition like diabetes. Besides being good for your heart and blood sugar levels, psyllium may help you lose weight.

Because psyllium absorbs liquid in your body, it can help give you a feeling of being full. This can help you control the amount of food you eat. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of taking psyllium if they have suggested you lose weight.

People with diabetes are constantly watching their diet to maintain a healthy balance of insulin and blood sugar (glucose). Some research has suggested that fibers like psyllium can help people maintain a healthy glycemic balance.

One study found that taking 5 grams of psyllium twice a day can help patients with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar. Another study of men with type 2 diabetes found similar results, but stressed that psyllium therapy should be tailored to the individual.

Psyllium is most commonly consumed in powder  form. The best way to consume it to take it dissolved in plain water and consume it fast before it swells. It is advisable to follow it up with a glass of water . It is also available in capsules, granules, and in liquid form. It is the main ingredient in many over-the-counter laxatives.