Psyllium mucilloid is a preparation of psyllium husk that is typically taken orally. Psyllium supplements are used to treat a variety of different ailments, including constipation and high cholesterol. Although psyllium mucilloid is generally safe and rarely causes severe side effects, you should talk to your doctor before using it or any other fiber supplement.
Identification
Psyllium mucilloid is a form of psyllium husk that is often found in fiber supplements. The psyllium tree produces thousands of small seeds that are covered in psyllium husk. When psyllium mucilloid or any other preparation of psyllium husk is exposed to water, the husk expands and forms a gel. Orally consumed psyllium husk is not broken down by your digestive tract and instead absorbs water in your intestines.
Uses
One of the main reasons why you consume psyllium mucilloid is to treat constipation. Because psyllium swells into an undigestable gel in your intestines, it can be used to add bulk to your stool, helping to propel fecal matter through your intestines. Psyllium may also help lower cholesterol and glucose levels in the blood by interfering with and slowing digestion. In these cases, psyllium is most effective when taken with meals.
Directions
Psyllium mucilloid typically is used for short-term relief of constipation. When used as a laxative, it should not be used for more than one week because long-term use can cause people to become physically dependent on it for bowel movements. Follow the dosing instructions for psyllium mucilloid on the packaging and be sure to drink at least 8 ounces of water or juice along with the psyllium.
Side Effects
Although psyllium mucilloid is safe for most people to use, it can cause bloating and a feeling of fullness. It is critical that you drink plenty of water or juice while using psyllium-containing products because if you are dehydrated the psyllium can cause your stool to be hard and dry, which will exacerbate your constipation. Talk to your doctor before taking psyllium mucilloid, as it may alter the effectiveness or absorption of some medications.
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