Psyllium is a soluble fiber which is used as a gentle bulk forming laxative.
It comes from a shrub/herb called "Plantago Ovata" which grows all over the world but is most common in India. Each shrub can produce up to 15000 tiny gel coated seed, from which psyllium husk is derived.
The soluble fiber found in the psyllium husks can help lower cholesterol, it can help relieve both constipation and diarrhea and is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids and other intestinal problems. Psyllium has also been used to help regulate blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. When the psyllium husk comes in contact with water, it swells and forms a gelatin that helps transport waste through the intestinal system.
Constipation -Many studies have shown that psyllium relieves constipation. Psyllium is widely used in Asia, Europe and North America. When the psyllium contacts water it swells and produces more bulk, which stimulates the intestine to contract and helps speed the passage of stool through the digestive tract.
Diabetes - Studies show that a high fiber diet may help to lower insulin and lower blood sugar levels and help reduce cholesterol levels in people with diabetes. It may also help reduce the chance of becoming diabetic for those that are of a higher risk.
Diarrhea - Psyllium can help to relieve mild to moderate diarrhea as it soaks up water in the digestive tract which helps to make the stools harder and slower to pass through the digestive system.
Heart disease - Having a high fiber diet (adding psyllium) may help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that a diet high in water soluble fiber is associated with lower triglyceride levels, and lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
Hemorrhoids - Psyllium can help to soften the stools and reduce pain associated with hemorrhoids
High Blood Pressure - Adding fiber especially psyllium, to your diet may help to reduce blood pressure. In one studies over a six month period using psyllium fiber significantly systolic and diastolic blood pressure in overweight people with hypertension.
High Cholesterol - Soluble fibers such as flax seed oil, loclo, and bowel build guar gum and oat bran can help to lower cholesterol when added to a low fat, low cholesterol diet.
Inflammatory bowel disease IBD - Studies have found conflicting results, Psyllium for mild to moderate cases of diarrhea from either ulcerative colitis or Crohns disease was as effective as any prescription drug in maintaining remission.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS - Several studies found that soluble fiber helps relieve some symptoms of IBS, such as diarrhea and constipation.
Obesity - studies and clinical reports suggest that psyllium may help you feel fuller and reduce hunger cravings.
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