Konsyl is the brand name of a psyllium fiber supplement. The Konsyl Original Formula product contains 6 g of fiber per teaspoon in the form of psyllium seed husks, equaling 3 g of soluble fiber. Adding psyllium to your diet has several potential benefits. Consult a qualified health care provider before taking Konsyl.
Constipation Relief
Konsyl, like other psyllium supplements, is mainly used to add soft bulk to stools. While not technically a laxative, psyllium husk swells into a gel-like substance when it combines with water, which helps move waste through the intestines, makes stools easier to pass and relieves constipation. This effect also can prevent the formation of hemorrhoids and the pain associated with hemorrhoids. Psyllium is safe to use regularly, unlike strong stimulant laxatives, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology.
Diarrhea Relief
Although it might seem counter-intuitive, psyllium also is effective at relieving mild to moderate diarrhea, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Because it absorbs significant amounts of water in the intestines, psyllium bulks up loose stools and makes them firmer.
Chronic Bowel Problems
In addition to relieving occasional constipation or diarrhea, psyllium also might help people dealing with chronic problems associated with irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease. Both cause some similar symptoms, but IBD is a serious disorder that can damage the intestines, while IBS does not. Psyllium may help relieve constipation and diarrhea associated with IBS, and mild-to-moderate cases of diarrhea in IBD. The University of Maryland Medical Center encourages IBD patients to work with their doctor to determine an appropriate dosage of psyllium, because too much can worsen IBD symptoms. Konsyl also is beneficial for people with diverticulosis, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. This condition involves small, bulging pouches of the inner lining of the intestine that can become inflamed and infected.
Cholesterol Benefits
Soluble fiber, including psyllium, can help reduce high cholesterol levels when you are also eating a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Normalizing cholesterol levels might decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Diabetes Benefits
A high-fiber diet, such as one including Konsyl, might decrease the risk of developing diabetes in people at risk for this disease, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition, a high-fiber diet can help reduce blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels in people who have diabetes.
Blood Pressure Benefits
Adding psyllium to your diet at 12 g of soluble fiber per day might reduce your blood pressure, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The center cites a study in which overweight participants with hypertension experienced significantly reduced blood pressure after six months of taking psyllium supplements.
