Psyllium husk Information-Uses and Benefits

Psyllium husk which is also known as isphagula is actually the coat of the Plantago Psyllium seeds. This plant is majorly found in the areas of Middle East. The Psyllium husk is one of the best sources of dietary fiber and it is highly recommended to add this husk in diet in comparison to any other grain. For instance, Psyllium husk has about 71 grams of fiber per third part of a cup whereas Oat bran has 5 grams of fiber per third part of a cup.

You can find the Psyllium husk content in major supplements which are known for having dietary fiber in them. This dietary fiber is very useful for people who have dietary problems like diarrhea or constipation. Psyllium husk works in a different way by absorbing the water of the digestive tract of a human body. It itself does not get digested which make the stool bulkier and softer. This helps in reducing the digestive problems.

Isphagula or Psyllium husk also helps in reducing the cholesterol level in blood other than helping in digestiveproblems. Cholesterol is reduced at a higher rate if Psyllium husk is taken with low fat diet but researches have shown that Psyllium husk can reduce cholesterol level if it is taken with high fat diet too. It can reduce 7% of low density lipoproteins which are called ‘bad cholesterol’.

Some researches are still in progress to determine other benefits of Psyllium husk. It is said that Psyllium husk helps in reducing blood sugar. Other benefits from consuming this product are that it may help in losing weight by passing fat through stools.

Although, Psyllium husk beneficial in many ways but it should be consumed with some care. You can feel problems like gas or bloating in the first few days after using this product. You can also feel problems like flatulence or diarrhea in the starting days. It takes your digestive system some time to get habitual of this dietary product.

Psyllium husk should be taken with special care among those people who have gone through any surgery related to bowels or intestines. Some people are allergic to this product; hence it should be taken with care.

You should remember that this product should be taken with water. You should take this product with water and also drink at least six to seven glasses of water per day.