Psyllium Husk
Type: Fibre
Other Variations: Ispaghula Seed
Psyllium husk is a type of soluble fibre that passes through the digestive tract without having to be digested, and it is widely used as a mild laxative to ease constipation.
It promotes bowel regularity and relieves constipation by absorbing water to form a thick, viscous bulk and softening the stool. As a dietary fibre, consumption of psyllium husk increases one's satiety thus reducing the tendency of overeating, which is helpful for weight management.
Psyllium husk is also effective in managing blood sugar level by slowing down the digestion and absorption of food. Furthermore, psyllium husk can help lower blood cholesterol level. It binds with bile acid and fat and excretes them from the body. As a result, our liver produces more bile acids, thereby reducing blood cholesterol levels.