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Psyllium fiber, derived from several species of the Plantago genus, is usually taken in its powdered husk form. It is best known for constipation relief but may hold other benefits for digestive and metabolic health.
Psyllium is most often used for
Last Updated:November 19, 2024
Psyllium, a soluble, bulk-forming fiber supplement derived from the ispaghula plants Plantago psyllium and Plantago ovata, is commonly used for treating chronic constipation due to its gentler effects compared to stimulant laxatives. It is recognized in the U.S. as a safe food additive and consists mainly of arabinoxylans, which may promote gut health.
Psyllium is primarily beneficial for relieving constipation by increasing water resorption and improving stool consistency, and it may also promote gut health when combined with other fibers. Additionally, it has potential benefits for reducing blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes, aiding in digestive health, and lowering LDL cholesterol, though further research is needed to clarify its effects and optimal usage.
Psyllium's main drawbacks include the risk of anaphylaxis for people who are allergic to it or related plants, potential acquired sensitivity from inhalation of powdered particles, and the possibility of worsening constipation if fluid intake is insufficient, which can lead to bowel obstruction. Although psyllium fiber generally produces less gas than other fibers, it can still cause digestive discomfort and bloating.
Psyllium works by encouraging water resorption in the intestines; it forms a gel that slows digestion, increases fecal weight, and improves stool consistency, all of which contribute to its laxative and appetite-suppressing effects. It is less fermentable than similar fibers, which results in fewer gastrointestinal side effects, and may also promote beneficial short-chain fatty acids and regulate glucose and cholesterol levels by binding to bile acids and slowing glucose absorption, although much of the evidence for these mechanisms is still preclinical.
As a bulk-forming laxative for the treatment of constipation, the adult dosage of powdered psyllium husk is typically 15 grams, 1–3 times per day, dissolved in water. Clinical trials have also used dosages ranging from 10.2–40 grams per day over two to eight weeks.[1][2]
Dosages used for other conditions have ranged from 2.4–20.4 grams per day for cholesterol control, 7–15 grams per day for body composition, and 3.1–13.6 grams per day for glucose regulation.[3][4][5][6][7]
Some studies also indicate that effects such as appetite suppression or reductions in blood glucose are more pronounced when psyllium is taken before or with a meal.[8][9][10]
Generally, psyllium can be used at the recommended dosages without a risk of serious side effects.[11] Psyllium at dosages of 5–10 grams taken three times per day generally seems to be well tolerated, and the most frequently reported side effects include transient stomach cramps and intestinal discomfort.[12][13] For this reason, it is best to start with smaller doses and work up as individual response permits.
Psyllium should be taken with plenty of water to avoid bloating and decrease the potential of bowel obstruction.[14] Therefore, psyllium is not recommended for use in people who are unable to maintain increased fluid intakes (for example, individuals who are confined to bed or who may have cognitive impairment).[15]
People with known allergies to other members of the Plantaginaceae family should exercise caution, because there have been some cases of anaphylaxis after psyllium consumption.[16][17] Occupational allergies are also reported to have developed due to the unintentional inhalation of or prolonged exposure to psyllium powder in people who work with psyllium regularly.[18][19][20][21][22][23][24]
Corrected an error
A correction was added to the FAQ What are psyllium's main drawbacks?
Edited By
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Dosage information was edited to add contraindications, adverse events, and to reflect doses used in current literature for various reasons.
All other FAQs are new content.