Psyllium is a water-soluble, bulk-forming laxative derived from the seed husk of the Plantago Psyllium plant. It has a number of beneficial effects on the digestive system and may be able to prevent heartburn.
Heartburn
According to the Mayo Clinic, heartburn is a digestive disorder that causes a burning pain in the upper chest. The symptoms of heartburn are often worse if you are benign or lying down. Suffering from heartburn occasionally is not uncommon. If you are suffering from heartburn on a regular basis, you should seek the advice of your doctor and you may be a more serious underlying causes, such as acid reflux disease.
Psyllium History
The use of psyllium dates back to the ancient Greeks, who named the plant with the word for flea, because of the size and shape of the plant's husk. Since then it has been used throughout the world as a cure for constipation and diarrhea, a colon cleansers and to prevent digestive disorders, such as heartburn. The Psylliums website claims that the use of health claims on supplement and food produce labels containing psyllium, was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 1998.
Significance
Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber that is made up of complex carbohydrates. According to Colon Zone, psyllium can absorb between eight and 16 times its own weight. This makes it a beneficial form of fiber and a gentle laxative and colon cleanser.
Function
Psyllium husk helps to stimulate peristalsis, which aids transit of the stool through the large intestine. As well as helping to prevent heartburn, psyllium can also aid digestion, relieve inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and help irritable bowel syndrome. According to Colon Advice, psyllium increases its size between 10 and 20 times as it absorbs water. For this reason, you should drink plenty of water when you take a psyllium supplement.
Warning
Colon Health Advice warns that potential side effects may include trouble swallowing or breathing, chest pain, nausea, hives, swollen lips or tongue. If you experience any of these side effects, you should stop taking psyllium straight away and seek medical advice. You should consult your doctor before using a psyllium supplement.
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