8 Amazing Health Benefits of Psyllium

Psyllium, or ispaghula, is a species of plantain with multiple health benefits. In this article, we have selected the main ones.

1. It fights constipation

Psyllium is a natural laxative, which retains water in the stool and thus facilitates their evacuation.

Gentle for the intestines, it also calms the inflammation of the intestinal walls often associated with constipation.

Psyllium can be taken regularly in case of chronic constipation.

2. It has anti-cholesterol properties

Psyllium is recommended for people with high cholesterol.

It promotes its elimination from the body and limits its absorption thanks to its pytosterols.

The seeds, which are not digested by the body, carry with them, fat present in excess.

3. It slows down diarrhea

Useful in constipation, psyllium is also a remedy in the opposite situation, in case of diarrhea.

Its seeds absorb the excess water present in the intestines thus allowing to find a normal transit and less liquid stools.

It can be sprinkled directly on the foods eaten.

4. It reduces inflammation of the intestines

Thanks to its high fiber content, psyllium contributes to a good intestinal flora and softens the mucous membranes.

It reduces bloating and gas by cleaning the bowel. It is often recommended in case of colopathy or irritable bowel syndrome to fight alternating constipation/diarrhea.

5. It regulates the level of glucose in the blood

According to a study published in Pubmed in 1999, psyllium reduces overall and postprandial glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Of 34 men with type 2 diabetes, the study shows that the overall glucose level was lowered by 11% after 8 weeks of blond psyllium treatment at a rate of 5.1 g per day.

6. It prevents cardiovascular disease

Psyllium acting favorably on the level of cholestérol.

It would reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

In addition, its high fiber content would lower blood pressure, with a consumption of 3.5 g of psyllium, 3 times a day for 6 months.

7. It fights against hemorrhoids

Psyllium seeds soften the consistency of the stool and facilitate their passage. It is, therefore, particularly indicated in case of hemorrhoidal crises.

It will also calm the pain in case of anal fissures, after surgery, or after a difficult delivery.

8. It helps to lose weight

Thanks to its high fiber content, psyllium swells in the stomach, bringing a sensation of satiety quickly for almost no caloric intake: 28 calories per 100g.

In addition, it carries with it undigested excess fat, preventing the storage thereof in adipocytes. It promotes weight loss and helps maintain the figure.