Psyllium Husk and Its Benefits

Regular intake of fibrous foods helps in the proper digestion of the body. With a good digestion process, it avoids the risk of diarrhea or constipation. It also ensures that foods eaten are well-processed and the necessary elements from these foods are well-distributed in the different parts of the body. Fiber intake needs to be part of a regular diet as it is a means to effectively address the untoward incidence of stomach distress or annoying bowel movement.

There are lots of fruits and vegetables that are proven to be rich in fiber. Pineapple and green leafy vegetables are some common examples. But according to some studies, Psyllium husk has the most fiber content making it the most excellent source of dietary fibers. An estimate of 71 grams of fiber for one-third of a cup is in its content compared to only 5 grams fibers of the same cup for other fibrous foods.

Psyllium husks are found in Plantago Psyllium. It is a plant that thrives in Middle East. The husk is the seed cover of this plant. Because of its high count of fiber, it is found to be a very effective in terms of obtaining more dietary fiber into a person's eating habits.

When psyllium husks are taken, they pass through the digestive tract, taking a lot of water along the process. But these husks are not digested, instead they help in the built up of stools becoming bulkier and softer. In this way, the stools can move through the intestine smoothly with lesser force on the intestinal wall. Through this smooth and fast process, haemorrhoids are prevented to occur. Going through this process, it is important that husk should be taken along with lots of water. A glass full of water should be taken when taking husk and an additional of six to seven glasses of water should be drank within the day to give the husks do their function effectively.

In addition, studies show that aside from digestion improvement, there are other benefits that these husks offer. They can also be helpful in reducing blood cholesterol. If taken regularly, it has been found that it can lower bad cholesterol by as much as 7%.

Furthermore, it has also been observed that excretion of stool includes fats. In effect, it acts as a supplement for weight loss. Other studies also inform that these husks are also beneficial in decreasing the count of blood sugar in the body. However, these studies are yet to be proven as these benefits are still on the initial stage of observation.

Continuous studies are being done to identify the other benefits of husk consumption. At the moment, it is already proven that it can facilitate in the proper digestion process and it helps in lowering blood cholesterol that results in lower blood pressure. A study on its effects on weight management and blood sugar control is currently in progress to fully establish these additional benefits of the husk.

With the existing benefits of the husk, it has already proven itself of the positive implications of its intake. Additional advantages would just be another testimony of the goodness of husk in the body.