Psyllium is derived from seed husks of Plantago ovata, a shrub-like plant that grows all around the world. Psyllium is commonly used as a dietary fiber supplement and for treating occasional constipation. Additionally, psyllium consumption can lead to modest decreases in cholesterol levels, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health.
Function
The seed husk of Plantago ovata is a type of soluble dietary fiber, meaning it absorbs water and helps develop large, soft stools that are easy to pass. This stool-forming activity makes psyllium effective for relieving diarrhea as well as constipation. Psyllium is gentler than stimulant laxatives, which cause contractions in the intestines that produce bowel movements and can result in diarrhea.
High Cholesterol
High blood levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, the so-called bad cholesterol, can cause build-up of plaque in the arteries that may lead to heart attack or stroke. Exercising, maintaining a normal weight, not smoking and eating a healthy diet can be effective for lowering cholesterol, according to the Mayo Clinic. When cholesterol levels remain high, doctors commonly prescribe medication for the problem. Statins, for example, block a substance the liver needs to make cholesterol.
Psyllium Effectiveness
Psyllium use shows potential for causing modest decreases in LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels, according to the NIH. It may take eight weeks for these reductions to occur. Psyllium does not seem to have much effect on levels of triglycerides, which are other blood fats. The University of Maryland Medical Center specifies that psyllium and other soluble fibers, including flax seed and oat bran, can be effective when added to a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.
Types
Psyllium is the main ingredient in many fiber supplements, such as Fiberall and Metamucil. The supplements are available in powder, wafers, tablets and capsules, and should be taken with plenty of liquid. A small number of commercial breakfast cereals also contain psyllium, although the low amount of psyllium in these foods may not be very effective for lowering cholesterol. During a study published in the Dec. 5-19, 1994 issue of the Medical Journal of Australia, otherwise healthy men with mildly elevated cholesterol experienced decreases in their cholesterol levels when eating cereal containing psyllium, but they were eating an entire box every day.
Caution
Although cases are rare, some people have experienced severe allergic reactions to these seed husks, including to cereals containing psyllium. Allergic reactions are most common in health-care product workers taking psyllium after they have repeated exposure to the substance from preparing laxatives, according to the NIH. Additionally, psyllium can be dangerous for anyone with bowel abnormalities, such as a blockage or a previous bowel surgery. Obstruction in the digestive tract can occur if psyllium is not taken with enough water.
References
- U.S. National Institutes of Health: Psyllium
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Psyllium
- MayoClinic.com: High Cholesterol Treatment and Drugs
- MayoClinic.com: High Cholesterol Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- The Medical Journal of Australia: cholesterol-Lowering Effect of a Breakfast Cereal Containing Psyllium
