Psyllium fiber powder is sold as a dietary supplement under brand names such as Metamucil. Consuming psyllium fiber can ease bowel movements by bulking stool with lubricating fiber, correcting both constipation and diarrhea. Psyllium fiber supplements a high-fiber diet aimed to reduce blood sugar or cholesterol as well as other metabolic wastes.
About Psyllium Fiber
Psyllium fiber powder is derived from the shrub Plantago ovata, native to India, that contains more than 15,000 tiny gel-coated seeds per plant. The husks of these seeds are ground to make the powder that contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. Fiber is composed of long chains of carbohydrates and other materials that are unable to be digested and absorbed by the body. Fiber moves through the intestines and helps carry away waste excreted in the bile that would otherwise be reabsorbed in the intestines.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Psyllium fiber absorbs water, forming a smooth gel. This gel solidifies watery stool as well as lubricates dense stool, making bowel movements easier. Psyllium fiber may also help ease bowel movements in cases of hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease. Although fiber may help carry away metabolic waste and toxins in the diet, it is unclear whether psyllium fiber supplements or a high-fiber diet may help prevent or treat colon cancer.
Lowering Blood Sugar and Cholesterol
High blood sugar and cholesterol can be markers of underlying diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other metabolic abnormalities. In addition to treating the underlying condition, high fiber intake helps clear excess sugar and cholesterol from the body. Normally excreted into the intestines via the bile, sugar and cholesterol can be reabsorbed by the intestines if fiber or other food matter is not present.
Increasing Fiber Intake
The 25 to 40 g of daily fiber recommended by MayoClinic.com may be difficult to consume in your diet. Supplementing your diet with psyllium fiber may help, if it is inconvenient to consistently consume high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Psyllium fiber is safe to take daily in the recommended amounts.
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