Psyllium is an herbal product that is used in many conventional bulk fiber laxative products. The compound, also called ispaghula, is culled from the husk of the Plantago ovata plant and is used as a laxative because it provides a high level of dietary fiber. Psyllium, like other laxatives or fiber products, does carry a risk of side effects, though the discomforts range in intensity for each individual. If you take a psyllium-based fiber product and experience vomiting, breathing or swallowing difficulties or chest pain, notify your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction that could become life-threatening if not treated.
Bloating
Bloating and other gastrointestinal side effects, including gas and diarrhea, are possible if you take large quantities of psyllium fiber products or increase the amount of psyllium in your diet too quickly. Fiber regulates the digestive system, but until your body becomes accustomed to the increased levels of fiber in your diet, whether from psyllium or food, you may experience some mild distress of the digestive tract.
Drop in Blood Sugar
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) report that psyllium as a fiber supplement could cause your blood glucose levels to drop. People who are diabetic, especially those who take medications to regulate their blood sugar levels, should consult their doctor before beginning supplementation with psyllium to determine appropriate dosages of both the fiber supplement and their diabetes drugs.
Intestinal or Esophageal Obstruction
Obstruction of the intestines or esophagus is a less common side effect associated with psyllium, but a potentially serious condition that should be attended to immediately. The American Cancer Society (ACS) explains that obstruction, from the psyllium becoming stuck in the throat or digestive tract, is more common when large quantities of the supplement are used to combat constipation. Drinking a full glass of water with psyllium can reduce the risk of this frightening side effect.
Altered Absorption of Medications
Taking pysllium as a fiber supplement can alter the way conventional medications are absorbed into your body. The ACS's list of drugs that can be affected by psyllium include tricyclic antidepressants, tetracycline, metformin and other diabetes medications, cholesterol-lowering drugs, digoxin and lithium. The safest way to avoid these adverse reactions is to let your doctor know all of the medications and supplements you use before you start taking psyllium.
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