Psyllium is an herb with useful seed husks that serve as a rich fiber source. Psyllium is the main ingredient in many commercial fiber supplements, and this plant product provides several healthy benefits. Supplements are often marketed as laxatives, but the psyllium fiber is safe to take regularly, according to MedlinePlus, and it also acts on digestion and other body processes in positive ways.
Constipation
Psyllium husk fiber is a constipation remedy because of how it acts in the digestive system. Fiber does not get digested and absorbed by your body for its nutritional value. Its main function is helping other foods go through your digestive system and be effectively passed out through bowel movements. Psyllium husk provides soluble fiber, which absorbs water and transforms into a gel that makes it more efficient at helping the elimination process. The fiber adds moisture and volume to your stool, preventing the small, hard feces bits common with constipation. The moist, bulky stool is much easier to comfortably pass.
Blood Sugar
Psyllium husk, like all forms of soluble fiber, stabilizes you blood sugar level. This benefit is especially useful for people with diabetes, and it helps to prevent the disease in people who are not diabetic. Type 2 diabetics who regularly consumed 50 g or more of fiber daily in a study were better able to control their blood glucose levels, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes are able to take lower insulin doses if they follow a high fiber diet. Psyllium husk makes it easy for people to raise their fiber intake without having to add more high-fiber foods to their diets.
Blood Cholesterol
Soluble fiber from psyllium husk and other sources lowers your level of low-density lipoprotein, also known as bad cholesterol, in your blood. Psyllium reduces the amount of cholesterol absorbed into your bloodstream, according to the Mayo Clinic. This benefit requires you to take in at least 5 g to 10 g of soluble fiber every day, either through a supplement, foods like oatmeal, fruit and vegetables, or a combination or dietary and supplemental sources. Using psyllium may allow you to lower your dose of cholesterol-lowering medication if you are currently taking such drugs. Your doctor can evaluate your situation and make recommendations.
Weight Control
Fiber is dietary bulk that makes you feel full, and psyllium husk shares this effect with other fiber types. Taking psyllium helps you feel sated more quickly and wards off hunger pangs for an extended time, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This effect is beneficial if you are trying to lose weight because it reduces your calorie intake.
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