The Cleansing Power of Psyllium Husk
There has been a lot of recent interest in psyllium. This is primarily due to its frequent use in high fiber breakfast cereals and from claims that soluble fiber is effective in reducing cholesterol.
Psyllium comes from the plantain, which is a shrub-like herb called that grows worldwide. This is not to be confused with plant of the same name that produces a variety of bananas used for cooking. The Plantain comes in many species that can each produce up to 15,000 seeds. Psyllium husk is derived from these odorless, tasteless seeds.
Health Benefits of Psyllium
- Several studies attribute the soluble fiber found in psyllium husks to a reduction in cholesterol.
- Psyllium is also used to soften stool and relieve problems caused by constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids, and other intestinal problems.
Dietary Sources of Psyllium Husk
- Psyllium is available in dry seed or husk form and is intended to be mixed with water as needed. The supplement forms are available in powder, tablet, capsule, and chewable wafer form.
- Psyllium is also added to many cereals to increase fiber content.
- Psyllium is an ingredient in some commercially prepared laxatives.
Unlike some other fiber supplements, psyllium generally does not cause excessive gas and bloating. I mix 2 tsp of psyllium with a large glass of water. You need to drink immediately before it becomes too thick to swallow easily. Psyllium is pretty potent stuff, so for those not accustomed to taking psyllium I recommend beginning with a low dose like a 1/2 tsp
Last Updated on October 9th, 2006
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Overall the psyllium has lots of benefits, and cleansing is just one of these. Lower cholesterol, reduce post prandial blood sugars, improve bowel health. Hard to beat.