Psyllium

Psyllium husk is a plant-based soluble fibre which improves digestive motility.  In other words, it assists to improve bowel regularity. Fibre also assists as a food source for healthy bacteria in the gut which is important for hormonal function and breakdown.  Healthy bacterial fermentation in the gut is essential in its role of supporting the elimination of wastes, production of serotonin (happy hormones), lessens bloating and regulates digestion.

Psyllium is a bulk-forming (non-addictive) laxative, which means once ingested it expands and forms a gelatin-like mass in the colon by drawing water in. Once this occurs the husks are able to “scrub” the intestines clean and transport waste through the intestinal tract.  The soluble fibre found in psyllium is useful in lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) as it has the ability to bind to the cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease and promotes overall health.

Fibre is more than just a regulator for the bowels, it is also vital to deliver essential nutrients to the entire body. Other beneficial effects of psyllium fibre are:

• Psyllium husks are beneficial for many digestive conditions also due to its effect on providing fibre to the bowel to initiate cleansing, it can be used in other digestive conditions such as diarrhoea, colitis, IBS, diverticulitis, haemorrhoids and ulcers.
• Due to its expanding quality in the stomach, it helps to reduce hunger sensations if taken before meals.
• It also helps promote regularity without increasing flatulence. It is therefore effective in treating irritable bowel syndrome, colon caner, constipation, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, ulcerative colitis and atherosclerosis among various other health conditions.
• Helps to manage blood sugars since the consumption of fibres can assist in maintaining healthy glycemic balance in the body.
• Improved heart health and blood pressure by lowering triglyceride levels within the blood thereby reducing cholesterol adhering to the artery walls.
• Healthy weight management due to the effect of the fiber on feelings of fullness and satiation as it swells in the stomach resulting in lowered food intake.