What Does Psyllium Husk Do?

Psyllium husk is the covering of whole seeds of several plants that belong to the genusPlantago. Seed husks are mostly grown on a large scale in India and are exported worldwide for commercial and supplementary use.

Some companies sell entire seeds with or without the husk, as well as powdered seeds. However, they are not the same as using the husks directly as a fiber supplement.

1. Promotes digestive health:The fiber in psyllium husk helps regulatedigestion. Fiber cannot be absorbed by the body, and when mixed with water, it forms a gel that moves along thedigestive system, trapping and removing waste. This helps the body pass waste more easily, promoting bowel movement regularity, preventinggasbuildup, and softening stools, thereby reducing thepain与hemorrhoids. Psyllium is also a prebiotic that helps the growth ofprobioticsin the gut, promoting good digestion.
2. Preventsdiarrheaandconstipation:Psyllium soaks up excess water in the digestive tract, adding bulk to凳子. It is used to treat mild to moderatediarrheaand relievesconstipation. Many use psyllium as alaxative, because it stimulates theintestinesto contract and speeds up the process of凳子passage through the digestive tract.
3. Relievesinflammatory bowel syndrome(IBS):Some studies have reported that the use of psyllium and other soluble fiber can relievesymptoms of IBSand Crohn’s disease, although some patients withIBSexperienced worsened symptoms. More is therefore required to understand the actual benefits and risks of psyllium in such patients.
4. 保持血液sugarlevels:A high fiberdietmay lower bloodsugarlevels and reduce the risk ofdiabetesin high-risk patients. Psyllium gel formed in the gut mixes with sugars and carbohydrates that come from the food and slows down their absorption into the blood, controlling blood sugar levels maintaining a healthyinsulinbalance.
5. Lowerscholesterol:Studies have reported that using psyllium husk daily can lower total and low-density lipoprotein (bad)cholesterol levels, which may help reduce the risk ofheart disease. Psyllium gel traps bile and cholesterol in the digestive tract, reduces their absorption, and thus lowers cholesterol levels andblood pressurein the body.
6. Reduces hunger and aids inweight loss:Because psyllium is rich in fiber and moves food slowly through the digestive system, eating psyllium helps you feel fuller for longer and can reduce food cravings. Therefore, consuming psyllium may aid inweight lossby.

1. Digestive tract:People who take psyllium for the first time may experience:
   1. Abdominal painandcramps
   2. Constipation
   3. Diarrhea
   4. Flatulence
   5. Increased bowel movements
   6. Nauseaandvomiting
2. Allergicreactions:Some people may be allergic to psyllium and have symptoms such as:
   1. Breathingdifficulties
   2. Skinrash
   3. Itching
   4. Swelling of the face and throat
   5. Vomiting
3. Interactions with medications:Psyllium may reduce the absorption and effectiveness of the followingdrugs:
   1. Digoxin(a medicine that regulatesheart function)
   2. Cholesterol-lowering drugs
   3. Diabetes medications(use of fibersupplementsmay lower blood sugar levels further and causehypoglycemia)
   4. Tricyclic antidepressants
   5. Carbamazepine
   6. Lithium

It is recommended to consult a doctor before taking psyllium to prevent possible side effects.