What Is Psyllium Good For?

Psyllium comes from a shrub native to India and is most often used in laxatives. It swells when it encounters water, and they clump together to move through your intestines. This may improve your bowel health. Psyllium is good for other uses as well. Consult your physician before taking psyllium.

Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome can trigger abdominal pain, bowel movement problems and cramping, and the medical community has not, as of 2011, discovered a single cause or a cure. Some physicians may recommend taking psyllium, though. Research published in the December 2009 issue of the journal "Australian Family Physician" correlates the use of psyllium with decreased symptoms of IBS. Further evidence in the September 2010 "Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care" indicates that while increasing fiber may not help all IBS patients, psyllium is the preferred method of upping fiber intake.

Relieving Constipation

Experiencing constipation -- technically defined as having a bowel movement less than three times weekly -- can make you uncomfortable, but taking psyllium may help. Research in the May-June 2008 issue of "La Pediatria Medica e Chirurgica" notes that psyllium is safe for use by children for relieving constipation. Adults may also consume psyllium for relief.

Controlling Glucose

High-quality fiber intake is critical for maintaining appropriate glucose levels in your blood. This can be particularly important if you have type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Evidence published in the November 2010 edition of "The Annals of Pharmacotherapy" indicates that people with type 2 diabetes who take medication to control their blood sugar benefit from adding psyllium to their diets.

Treating Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome -- a collection of symptoms that can trigger diabetes, stroke and heart problems -- can be controlled through dietary changes, such as taking psyllium to increase your fiber consumption. Research in the September 2010 "Journal of Clinical of Gastroenterology" suggests that taking psyllium and other water-soluble fiber may offer a good treatment option for metabolic syndrome due to its positive influence on weight, cholesterol and blood pressure.

Protecting Against Heart Disease

Those at risk for heart disease may consider taking psyllium to decrease their chances of developing it. A study in the December 2008 issue of "Current Atherosclerosis Reports" reveals that high-fiber foods such as psyllium decrease the bad type of cholesterol in the blood that may attach to the walls of blood vessels and build up over time, which can block blood flow and contribute to heart disease.