5 Amazing Health Benefits of Psyllium Husk
In this article, you’ll find:
What is psyllium husk?
Psyllium Husk Benefits
1. Psyllium husk may help glucose control
In addition, psyllium husk helps to improve long-term glucose control.2
2. Psyllium husk can improve heart health
The gel-like fibre created when psyllium absorbs water may also play an important role in lowering our “bad” LDL (low-density lipoproteins) cholesterol without having any effect on our “good” HDL (high-density lipoproteins) cholesterol via a similar mechanism to that of cholesterol-lowering drugs.3
This mechanism involves psyllium binding to bile acids in the gut and preventing their re-absorption. This has important implications for our health as studies have suggested that high LDL cholesterol is associated with various cardiovascular diseases.4
3. Psyllium husk may aid weight loss
Feelings of hunger after meals are all too common when dieting and can completely ruin a well-structured programme in an instant.
Whilst a sustained negative energy balance (sustained periods of time eating fewer calories than used by the body) is fundamental for weight loss, the high fibre content of the psyllium husk can be a great tool to have in your weight loss belt as its addition has been demonstrated to help slow the digestion of food within the stomach and increase feelings of fullness following a meal.5
With this in mind, studies have demonstrated significant weight loss with the addition of psyllium husk to the diet.6,7 Whilst this is impressive in itself, these studies also demonstrate sustained, progressive weight loss over time and no weight re-gain during the latter months of the programme.
4. Helps to meet daily fibre recommendations
Each teaspoon of psyllium husk contains a staggering 5g of fibre, which is around 15% of your daily fibre requirements and the equivalent of 200g steamed broccoli. Given that the average fibre intake within the UK is 10-15g lower than recommended values8 (Institute of Medicine recommends 14g per 1000 kcal), especially for those consuming low-carbohydrate diets, it’s important to keep on top of daily fibre intake.
5. Promotes natural bowel movements
Healthy bowel function is essential for optimal health and to avoid gastrointestinal issues such as constipation and subsequent haemorrhoids. Not only are these damaging to our health but they can also impact our performance or make exercise impossible altogether.
To this end, psyllium has been demonstrated to provide a clear laxative effect and help to improve the regularity of the bowel and is highly recommended for those suffering with chronic constipation.10
When compared with other dietary fibre sources, psyllium appears to be one of the most effective for bowel-related issues whilst also being associated with fewer side-effects such as bloating and gas.
Furthermore, psyllium supplementation is also gluten-free.
Psyllium Husk dosage
Whilst there is no general consensus on the optimal dosage, the majority of beneficial effects are seen when taking 3.5 – 5g (mixed with 250-500 ml water) one to two times per day before meals. It’s advised, when consuming higher doses of psyllium, to increase the amount of water it’s mixed with. The consumption of psyllium without water is not advised as this may result in sapping of saliva within the mouth and subsequent choking.
It’s advisable to start with a smaller amount of psyllium husk and begin with 3.5 g once per day for the first week, increasing this to twice per day in the second week. Using too much too soon can increase the probability of side effects.
Psyllium Husk Side Effects
The side effects of psyllium husk are similar to any high doses of fibre. Possible side effects include:
Bloating Stomach cramping Constipation Gas
Carefully monitoring total fibre intake and increasing usage slowly over time can minimize side effects. You should always consult your GP before taking a new supplement like psyllium husk.
Take home message
FAQs
What is psyllium husk?
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Can psyllium husk promote weight loss?
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Claire is a Registered Dietitian through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and a board-certified Health and Wellness Coach through the International Consortium for Health and Wellness Coaching. She has a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Dietetics and Nutrition from the University of Pittsburgh.
Talking and writing about food and fitness is at the heart of Claire’s ethos as she loves to use her experience to help others meet their health and wellness goals.
Claire is also a certified indoor cycling instructor and loves the mental and physical boost she gets from regular runs and yoga classes. When she’s not keeping fit herself, she’s cheering on her hometown’s sports teams in Pittsburgh, or cooking for her family in the kitchen.
Find out more about Claire’s experience here.
