Fiber is a term for certain types of carbohydrates that don't break down during digestion and don't get absorbed into your bloodstream. These substances have no nutritional value, but they can support your health by improving the passage of feces through your large intestine, or colon. Inulin and psyllium husk supplements achieve their effects in different ways. Consult your doctor before you take either one of these fiber supplements.
Inulin Basics
Inulin is a term for a group of naturally occurring substances called inulin-type fructans that naturally occur in over 30,000 different plant species. The commercial form of inulin commonly comes from a plant called chicory. Another form of fiber derived from the chemical breakdown of inulin, called oligofructose, also comes from this source. Inulin maintains its structure when exposed to high temperatures, and in addition to its role as an ingredient in fiber supplements, it sometimes serves as a fiber additive in baked or cooked foods. Inulin has no color or texture; it also has no particular taste.
Psyllium Husk Basics
Psyllium is a naturally occurring substance obtained from the seeds of a plant species called Plantago ovata. Any given plant from this species holds roughly 15,000 seeds, each of which has an outer coating or husk. When you place this husk in water, it expands in size and takes on a gel-like consistency. Commercial psyllium products can contain either dried separated husks or dried whole seeds. Available forms of these products include powder, wafers, capsules, granules, liquids and tablets.
Inulin's Effects
When inulin enters your colon, naturally occurring microorganisms ferment it. This fermentation process adds water to your stool and increases its bulk. As a result, stool passes more easily and bowel movements become more regular. In addition to its bowel-regulating effects, inulin appears to support the growth and activity of bacteria in you colon called bifidobacteria. These bacteria help protect your bowel health in several ways, including suppressing the activities of potentially harmful bacteria and reducing your chances for bowel infections.
Psyllium Husk's Effects
Inside your colon, psyllium's gel-like mass soaks up water and adds bulk to your stool. If you have constipation, this activity can ease your symptoms by encouraging your bowels to contract and sweep out waste materials. If you have diarrhea, this activity can ease your symptoms by absorbing excess water and making your stool firmer. Psyllium also helps relieve hemorrhoids, helps lower your levels of harmful LDL cholesterol, and may help lower your risks for heart disease and improve your ability to control your body's blood glucose levels. Consult your doctor for specific guidelines on the proper use of both inulin fiber supplements and psyllium husk fiber supplements.
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