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Psyillium Seed
100% ORGANIC
Psyllium seed husk, derived from the Plantago ovata plant, is a soluble fiber used in dietary supplements, fortified foods, and as a bulk-forming laxative. When mixed with water, it forms a viscous, gel-like substance that offers numerous health benefits, primarily for the digestive and cardiovascular systems.
Key uses of psyllium seed husk
Digestive health
Relieves constipation: Psyllium functions as a bulk-forming laxative by absorbing water in the intestines. This softens the stool and increases its bulk, which helps promote regular and easier bowel movements.
Manages diarrhea: By absorbing excess water in the gut, psyllium can help firm up loose stool and slow down its passage through the colon, making it useful for treating mild diarrhea.
Eases Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): For those with IBS, which can cause alternating episodes of constipation and diarrhea, psyllium's ability to normalize stool consistency can help manage symptoms like stomach pain and bowel irregularity.
Promotes gut health: It acts as a prebiotic, nourishing the beneficial bacteria in the gut. These bacteria then produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which support gut health, heart health, and the immune system.
Heart health
Lowers cholesterol: The soluble fiber in psyllium can bind to cholesterol and bile acids in the digestive tract, preventing them from being reabsorbed and carrying them out of the body as waste. This helps to reduce total and LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels. The FDA has authorized a health claim for foods with at least 1.7 grams of psyllium per serving that, when part of a low-saturated fat diet, can lower the risk of heart disease.
Reduces blood pressure: Some studies have shown that psyllium can help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension.
Blood sugar management
Stabilizes blood sugar: When taken with meals, psyllium fiber forms a gel that can slow down the absorption of glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream. This helps prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar and can improve overall glycemic control, especially for individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
Weight management
Increases satiety: The gelling properties of psyllium help promote a feeling of fullness and suppress appetite by slowing down stomach emptying. This can reduce overall calorie intake and support weight loss efforts.
How to take psyllium
Forms: Psyllium is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and wafers. The powder can be mixed into water, juice, or smoothies.
Hydration is critical: It is essential to take psyllium with plenty of fluids, ideally at least 8 ounces (240 mL) of water per dose. Taking it with insufficient liquid can cause the fiber to swell in the throat or esophagus, leading to choking or blockage.
Gradual increase: When starting, begin with a small dose and gradually increase it over time. This can help prevent potential side effects like bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.
Important precautions
Before taking psyllium, particularly if you have any health conditions or take other medications, consult with a doctor or pharmacist. It may interact with some medicines by hindering their absorption if taken at the same time.
100% ORGANIC
Psyllium seed husk, derived from the Plantago ovata plant, is a soluble fiber used in dietary supplements, fortified foods, and as a bulk-forming laxative. When mixed with water, it forms a viscous, gel-like substance that offers numerous health benefits, primarily for the digestive and cardiovascular systems.
Key uses of psyllium seed husk
Digestive health
Relieves constipation: Psyllium functions as a bulk-forming laxative by absorbing water in the intestines. This softens the stool and increases its bulk, which helps promote regular and easier bowel movements.
Manages diarrhea: By absorbing excess water in the gut, psyllium can help firm up loose stool and slow down its passage through the colon, making it useful for treating mild diarrhea.
Eases Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): For those with IBS, which can cause alternating episodes of constipation and diarrhea, psyllium's ability to normalize stool consistency can help manage symptoms like stomach pain and bowel irregularity.
Promotes gut health: It acts as a prebiotic, nourishing the beneficial bacteria in the gut. These bacteria then produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which support gut health, heart health, and the immune system.
Heart health
Lowers cholesterol: The soluble fiber in psyllium can bind to cholesterol and bile acids in the digestive tract, preventing them from being reabsorbed and carrying them out of the body as waste. This helps to reduce total and LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels. The FDA has authorized a health claim for foods with at least 1.7 grams of psyllium per serving that, when part of a low-saturated fat diet, can lower the risk of heart disease.
Reduces blood pressure: Some studies have shown that psyllium can help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension.
Blood sugar management
Stabilizes blood sugar: When taken with meals, psyllium fiber forms a gel that can slow down the absorption of glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream. This helps prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar and can improve overall glycemic control, especially for individuals with Type 2 diabetes.
Weight management
Increases satiety: The gelling properties of psyllium help promote a feeling of fullness and suppress appetite by slowing down stomach emptying. This can reduce overall calorie intake and support weight loss efforts.
How to take psyllium
Forms: Psyllium is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and wafers. The powder can be mixed into water, juice, or smoothies.
Hydration is critical: It is essential to take psyllium with plenty of fluids, ideally at least 8 ounces (240 mL) of water per dose. Taking it with insufficient liquid can cause the fiber to swell in the throat or esophagus, leading to choking or blockage.
Gradual increase: When starting, begin with a small dose and gradually increase it over time. This can help prevent potential side effects like bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.
Important precautions
Before taking psyllium, particularly if you have any health conditions or take other medications, consult with a doctor or pharmacist. It may interact with some medicines by hindering their absorption if taken at the same time.