
Psyllium Husk
Psyllium is the term given to the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant, which is a shrub-like herb native to India but grows all over the world. Psyllium, also known as ispaghula, has been utilised as a natural herbal cure for a number of health conditions in traditional Indian and Asian medicine.
Soluble fibre comes in the form of psyllium husk fibre. That is, it dissolves in water and forms a gel-like material that softens stools, eases bowel movements, and improves regularity while reducing flatulence (gas). In humans, it is indigestible. Psyllium is used to treat gastrointestinal problems and has shown promise in the treatment of high cholesterol and diabetes.
Adults require approximately 30 grammes of fibre per day, however most adults only consume half of that amount. Fiber is beneficial not only for regular bowel movements, but also for lowering the risk of colon cancer, lowering cholesterol, and even aiding weight loss.
Many of these advantages are found in psyllium husk fibre, which is widely used in fibre supplements as a powder and in capsule form.