Psyllium provides a source of soluble fiber primarily used to prevent and treat constipation. Psyllium derives from the tiny, gel-coated seeds of a shrub-like herb called Plantago ovata. It provides soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol and treats irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids and other intestinal problems.
Calories
Psyllium contains between 15 to 25 calories per teaspoon. Different brands recommend different servings; some consider 1 rounded teaspoon a serving, others consider 2 measured teaspoons a serving.
Fat
While there is no measurable fat in a teaspoon of psyllium, a cup contains about just over 1/2 g of fat, or about 2 percent of the total calories.
Carbohydrates
The main source of calories in psyllium comes from carbohydrates in the form of fiber. Each teaspoon of psyllium contains about 4 g of fiber. Fiber helps increase stool bulk by absorbing liquid in your intestines. The recommended intake of fiber, according to Netrition.com equals about 25 g per day. Psyllium provides about 16 percent of that amount in every teaspoon.
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