What is psyllium husk? Isabgol? Is it fiber? What are its benefits and drawbacks? Frequently Asked Questions about psyllium husk
Isabgol is the generic name for the husks that are used in making Psyllium Husk, Isabgol is part of the corn fibre family. Psyllium Husk is a soluble fibre that works as a digestive aid. It also contains helpful trace minerals like iron and magnesium, which make it valuable for anyone with an iron-deficient disorder, such as anaemia. It can be used to replace enriched white bread, potatoes’ skins, or potatoes themselves in bread recipes. Because of its water-absorbing property, psyllium husk is also an excellent alternative to sugar-free baking mixes and cakes, cookies, muffins and fruit desserts.
Different forms of Isabgol
Isabgol (sometimes spelled as Isabguit) comes in three different forms and is the only form of the fibre that can be consumed directly by swallowing. Psyllium Husk is available in two forms. They are powders that mix well and are easy to chew; and tablets that have a hard texture but do not mix well and are more easily swallowed. You should take psyllium husk in its powder form at least once per day, preferably twice, for best results. Psyllium is easily digested when it is combined with other vegetables and foods that are high in fibre, including whole grains and fruits.
The other main ingredient in Psyllium Husk is isabgol, which is a plant compound that has similar structure to mucilage. The only difference is that it cannot be broken down or absorbed into the human body. The combination of the two makes isabgol ideal for use in making fibre-rich foods like bread and vegetables. For this reason, it is the most commonly used ingredient in the creation of meals. Isabgol cultivation is part of the process used in turning psyllium husk into isabgol, a by-product that can be used for food and other purposes.
Health Benefits of Isabgol
While there are many benefits associated with consuming psyllium husk, one of the most important health benefits is reduction in cholesterol levels. High cholesterol can be very dangerous to your overall health, but it’s even worse if you have no idea what you’re eating. High cholesterol is often associated with high fat consumption, which is not necessarily the case. While it’s true that you can consume large amounts of fat and still remain healthy, there are also significant benefits from consuming soluble fiber in moderation. Psyllium fiber, while not as nutritious as other types of fiber, does not cause bad cholesterol at all, so if you’re concerned about cholesterol levels, you should include Psyllium Husk in your diet.