Psyllium

About Psyllium

Psyllium is the husk of the seeds of Plantago ovata, a plant cultivated largely in India, and is one of the most widely used fiber supplements. It consists mostly of soluble, viscous, gel forming fiber that is only partly fermented in the colon, which allows it to hold water and add bulk to stool. Psyllium is used as a bulk forming laxative for constipation and can also help firm loose stools, and it is the active ingredient in several well known over the counter fiber products. Its viscous gel slows the absorption of sugars and binds bile acids, contributing to modest reductions in LDL cholesterol. In 1998 the US FDA authorized a health claim linking soluble fiber from psyllium husk, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, to reduced risk of coronary heart disease. Psyllium is also used in gluten free baking to improve dough structure. Bloating and gas are common side effects, and rare allergic reactions have been reported, particularly among people handling the powder.