The name Psyllium is derived from the Greek word "psylla", meaning "flea", referring to the appearance of the tiny seeds. Primarily, Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative high in both fiber and mucilage, which is why this herb is commonly found in many over-the-counter laxative products available today. The main property of the psyllium is comparable to many other herbs in that, its main role is in the restoration of normal functioning in the organs of the body.
Constipation
Constipation and other bowel disorders can be a sign of a possible serious organ dysfunction. Constipation is most often caused by a low-fiber diet, lack of physical activity, inadequate intake of fluid each day, or delay in going to the bathroom when you have the urge to defecate. Traditionally, psyllium husk is used as a gentle bulk-forming laxative for constipation. The main effect for humans is relief of chronic constipation. This is often beneficial for overweight people who have preferred dieting practices that result in constipation.
Fiber supplements such as psyllium have been proven to be effective for easing constipation, but most nutritionists agree that the best source of fiber is from foods. One recent published study assessed the validity of psyllium as a remedy for constipation versus docusate sodium, a synthetic, anionic laxative that is also marketed as a cure for constipation, and psyllium was shown to be a faster and a more consistent remedy for constipation by increasing water content. Although other studies suggest that psyllium may be beneficial in the treatment of diarrhea or constipation in general, it is not known if psyllium is an effective therapy for irritable bowel syndrome.
Foods
Recently, the American Heart Association gave its approval for food manufacturers to make a health claim that "eating soluble fiber from foods such as psyllium as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition, all foods bearing a psyllium health claim must also bear a label statement concerning the need to consume them with adequate amounts of fluids. The studies confirm the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables but suggest that other substances in these foods may be responsible for their protective effect. Incorporating high-fiber foods (such aspsyllium-enriched cereals) into the diet may help lower heart disease risk. In a recent study of the consumption of psyllium-containing foods, a trend was observed toward a greater LDL-cholesterol response in men than in women, with some groups consuming amounts of psyllium daily that were lower than the standard for this meta-analysis.
Oat
The psyllium husk is a source of water soluble fiber, similar to fiber found in grains such as oats and barley. But the amount of soluble fiber in psyllium is much higher than oat bran. Every 100 grams of psyllium provides 71 grams of soluble fiber; a similar amount of oat bran would contain only 5 grams of soluble fiber. To avoid bloating and gas, it is recommended to start with alower dose and increase it as the body adjusts. It must be taken with plenty of water to avoid choking or blocking the esophagus, throat, or intestine. Psyllium should be avoided by people who have throat problems or difficulty swallowing.
Supplements
Although fiber supplements are useful in treating constipation, fruits and vegetables are considered to be more effective in lowering cancer risk. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. People using other herbs or supplements that may alter blood sugar levels, such as bitter melon Momordica charantia, should be monitored closely by their healthcare provider while using psyllium. Fiber supplements may reduce the body's ability to absorb digoxin, a medication used to regulate heart function.
Psyllium is one of the only fiber supplements that contains a beneficial amount of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Psyllium is available as nonprescription drug products and as herbal dietary supplement products. Psyllium is a bulk laxative used for short-term treatment of constipation. Psyllium is well accepted as a safe and effective bulk laxative and is an adjunct to dietary intervention for individuals who do not adequately respond to a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.
Constipation In WomenConstipation and other bowel disorders can be a sign of a possible serious organ dysfunction. Fiber supplements such as psyllium have been proven to be effective for easing constipation, but most nutritionists agree that the best source of fiber is from foods. Find out more about Psyllium Is Effective for Easing Constipation [http://naturalcolontherapy.com/psyllium_easing_constipation.html]
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