PSYLLIUM HUSK: Natural Digestive Aid.

To Summarize: Clinical studies have found associations between psyllium husk supplementation and decreased cholesterol and constipation relief. 

Psyllium husk supplements are derived from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant, a herb predominantly grown in India. Known for its high soluble fiber content, psyllium husk has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to promote digestive health. When ingested, psyllium husk swells and forms a gel-like mass by drawing water into the intestines, aiding in the movement of stool through the digestive tract. 

This natural supplement offers a multitude of health benefits, including…

• Improved bowel regularity
• Lower cholesterol levels 
• Better blood sugar control

Its ability to absorb liquid makes it beneficial for those looking to manage their weight, as it can promote a feeling of fullness. Therefore it is a popular choice for individuals seeking to enhance their digestive health and overall well-being.

This article will outline three studies whose results support these claims.

STUDY 1: Cholesterol.

This study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, carried out with the objective of assessing the effects of psyllium supplementation in conjunction with a low-fat diet on type II diabetic patients. This study lasted 12 weeks and involved 123 men and women diagnosed with type II diabetes.

Key metrics measured included plasma glucose, total serum cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides levels. Participants received 15g/day of psyllium (divided into three 5g doses, each dissolved in 250 mL water) or a placebo.

Findings:

• Results indicated that adding 15g/day of psyllium to a low-fat diet significantly reduced LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose levels, and total serum cholesterol in diabetic patients over the 12-week period.
• The study highlighted that diabetes typically increases triglycerides and LDL levels, elevating the risk of heart disease and stroke, and psyllium supplementation could mitigate these risks.

STUDY 2: 

This study was an uncontrolled randomized clinical trial aimed at comparing the effects of mixed fibre and psyllium on bowel symptoms in patients suffering from chronic constipation. Participants, comprising 72 males and females aged between 18 and 75 years, were assessed over a 4-week period. 

The evaluation methods included a stool and symptom diary and a questionnaire that probed into various aspects such as bowel satisfaction, feelings of satiety, fullness after meals, abdominal bloating, and flatulence. Additionally, the quality of life of the participants was self-assessed using the Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaire.

Findings:

• The study’s findings highlighted an improvement in constipation symptoms (alleviating flatulence and bloating) and quality of life associated with both psyllium supplementation. 

STUDY 3: 

This research was conducted as a randomized, single-blinded, placebo-controlled trial to examine the effects of incorporating psyllium into the diet on patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic constipation. The study involved 51 males and females who were subjected to a 12-week period of intervention. 

Findings:

• The outcomes revealed that, in comparison to the baseline and placebo groups, the addition of psyllium was linked to notable improvements in constipation symptoms, body weight, glucose levels, and lipid profiles. Specifically, there was a significant reduction in body weight, with an average loss of 2.0 kg in body weight and a decrease of 0.8 kg/m^2 in BMI after the 12 weeks of psyllium therapy.
• The findings suggest that psyllium supplementation can offer multiple health benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic constipation, including enhanced bowel function, better glycemic control, and favorable changes in weight and lipid levels

PSYLLIUM HUSK MAY BE SUITABLE FOR YOU IF…

• You suffer from constipation

• You want help to promote regularity and overall digestive health.