Psyllium Husk – Is it Effective for Weight Loss?

Psyllium husk, or scifolium, is the generic term used for a group of tubers of the plant family, cimicifuga, which are native to India and other parts of Asia. Psyllium is primarily used as a fiber for the relief of constipation, especially to relieve symptoms of mild diarrhea and occasional constipation. It is also commonly used as an absorbent in ointments and powders, and in foods that are low in fiber, such as those that are found in dried fruits, nuts, and seeds.

For centuries, people in India have used psyllium husk for treating a host of symptoms, many of which have proven beneficial in reducing or eliminating heart disease. The oil from the husk is used to make a variety of body cleansing products, including a variety of skin ointments and dietary supplements for asthmatics and people suffering from eczema and other chronic skin conditions. The oil also has proven beneficial for people who want to reduce their cholesterol levels, although preliminary research suggests that psyllium husk may actually help reduce high cholesterol levels, rather than high triglycerides (LDL) and low high cholesterol levels.

Since psyllium husk is gluten-free, it can be used liberally in a variety of gluten-free and dairy-free diet plans, because it is a good source of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. Many kinds of berries and teas also contain soluble and insoluble fiber, so Psyllium Husk can be used interchangeably with most of these food items in any diet. Most people who are allergic to wheat or gluten find that they do not respond well to standard wheat or gluten-free diets. For them, a good substitute is to use Psyllium Husk in place of wheat or gluten-based products whenever possible.

Another surprising fact about Psyllium Husk is that it is highly effective in alleviating both constipation and diarrhea. In studies conducted by scientists, psyllium demonstrated significantly greater effectiveness in controlling bowel movements than did standard laxatives. It seems as if psyllium facilitates regular and proper function of the large bowel while preventing diarrhea and constipation in people who are otherwise unable to treat these conditions. Psyllium Husk is effective even in people who experience frequent diarrhea or constipation.

Some studies suggest that it may help reduce cholesterol levels and reduce blood sugar levels. However, most studies suggest that further research is needed to confirm these claims. In one study, participants who took Psyllium Husk failed to lose more body weight than those who took the dietary supplement alone. Similarly, in another study participants taking Psyllium Husk were found to have lower blood sugar levels than those who took a placebo.

The benefits of psyllium come from its natural bulk-forming laxative action. Psyllium husk, unlike many bulk-forming laxatives, does not undergo fermentation when it is harvested (which slows down its digestive enzymes and reduces its laxative effect). Because of this, psyllium can be more effectively digested than other bulk-forming laxatives such as Metamucil. Taken in its capsule form, Psyllium Husk can also be used in the treatment of constipation, as it may help increase the passage of stool.