Improve Colon Function With Psyllium
The husk of Psyllium is the actual coating of mucilage around the seed. It is considered pure dietary fiber and is the only part of the plant used in manufacturing Psyllium products. Its nutritional value consists mainly of glycosides, proteins, and polysaccharides. The seed itself is made up of 40% Linoleic Acid (LA), an important fatty acid essential to health. The husk is composed mostly of a fiber called hemicellulose which is a complex carbohydrate found in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Hemicellulose is indigestible and it is partially broken down in the colon and feeds the friendly intestinal flora.
Psyllium is a seed/husk from the plantain plant used as an intestinal cleanser, bulk laxative, and stool softener. Psyllium is used to treat/relieve constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, hemorrhoids, and other intestinal disorders. High fiber foods help to reduce high blood pressure, heart disease, cholesterol, and weight (obesity).
Psyllium husk has been studied as a “non-systemic” cholesterol-lowering agent, with generally modest effects seen on total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels. Several psyllium-containing cereals such as Heartwise and Bran Buds have appeared in the United States marketplace during the last 15 years, and have been touted for their potential lipid lowering and “heart health promoting” effects a statement now allowed by the FDA.
Similar to oats and wheat, psyllium is rich in soluble fiber. Traditionally, psyllium husk is used as a gentle bulk-forming laxative for constipation. It is used as a stabilizing and thickening agent in many salad dressings, soups, lotions, and creams. Psyllium seeds are oval shaped, odorless, practically tasteless, and are coated with mucilage. Most commercial preparations consist of blonde psyllium. Another type of psyllium, called black psyllium, may also be used as a bulk laxative and carries the same effects as blonde psyllium, but is not typically found in commercial psyllium preparations.
Laxatives are to be used to provide short term relief only, unless otherwise directed by the nurse or physician who is helping you to manage your bowel symptoms. A regimen that includes a healthy diet containing roughage (whole grain breads and cereals, bran, fruit, and green, leafy vegetables), six to eight full glasses (12 Fl Ozs) of liquids each day, and some form of daily exercise is most important in stimulating healthy bowel function.
One should not consume more than 15 grams of Psyllium each day unless advised by a health care practitioner. Psyllium husk is available in capsule, tablet, or bulk powder forms. Look for name brands to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase. Always look to your local or internet health food store for name brands you can trust.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Psyllium fiber is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.