Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your body uses to make hormones, bile acids and cell membranes. When cholesterol levels in your blood get too high, cholesterol accumulates on the walls of your arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. Lowering your high cholesterol levels can lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Psyllium can be a part of this process.
Psyllium Identification
Psyllium is derived from Plantago ovata, a shrublike herb most commonly found in India but which grows all over the world. This plant produces several thousand small seeds, which are coated with psyllium husk, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Psyllium is a form of soluble fiber, which means it swells into a gel-like substance when it comes in contact with water. Like all forms of fiber, psyllium is not absorbed by the digestive tract and passes through the intestines.
Effects on Cholesterol
All forms of soluble fiber, including psyllium, can help to lower cholesterol levels. When you add psyllium to a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet, you can lower both your total and LDL cholesterol levels. LDL cholesterol is particularly important because it is closely associated with your risk of developing atherosclerosis. Psyllium supplements can be used in combination with other cholesterol-lowering treatments, such as statin medications.
Mechanism
In an article in "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in 2000, researchers speculated as to how psyllium can lower cholesterol levels. They suggested that part of its effects could be due to psyllium stimulating the production of bile; bile contains cholesterol, and when bile is produced, some of it is excreted in the feces, which depletes the body of some of its cholesterol. Psyllium may also interfere with cholesterol absorption, which also contributes to lower cholesterol levels.
Proper Use
Psyllium is available in many forms, including powder, capsules, granules, liquid and wafers. Take psyllium with at least 8 oz of water, MedLine Plus explains. Failing to take psyllium with water can cause the fiber to swell and become lodged in your digestive tract. You may also experience some bloating, flatulence or discomfort when taking psyllium; start at a low dose and gradually increase your psyllium intake to minimize these effects.
