This mechanism involves psyllium binding to bile acids in the gut and preventing their re-absorption. This has important implications for our health as studies have suggested that high LDL cholesterol is associated with various cardiovascular diseases.4

It’s advisable to start with a smaller amount of psyllium husk and begin with 3.5 g once per day for the first week, increasing this to twice per day in the second week. Using too much too soon can increase the probability of side effects. It can take two to three days to see improvements in bowel activity. 2However, some people prefer this more gradual laxative action because it initiates a steadier improvement in constipation symptoms than stimulant laxatives. A general rule is to try bulk-forming laxatives, such those containing psyllium, before using other stimulant and osmotic laxatives. 3 Summary Reissel P, Manninen V. Effect of administration of activated charcoal and fibre on absorption, excretion and steady state blood levels of digoxin and digitoxin. Evidence for intenstinal secretion of the glycosides. Acta Medica Scandinavica. 1982. doi:10.1111/j.0954-6820.1982.tb08527.x Gibb, R. D., McRorie Jr, J. W., Russell, D. A., Hasselblad, V., & D’Alessio, D. A. (2015). Psyllium fiber improves glycemic control proportional to loss of glycemic control: a meta-analysis of data in euglycemic subjects, patients at risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and patients being treated for type 2 diabetes mellitus. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 102(6), 1604-1614. This is why it is suggested that you follow the directions for taking psyllium, drink plenty of fluids and take psyllium husk at least 1 hour before or 2 to 4 hours after eating meals and or taking your vitamins to allow your body enough time to absorb the nutrition [2]. How does psyllium support weight loss?Psyllium husks are a form of fibre that comes from the husks of psyllium seeds of the Asian Plantago plant genus. The husks can be ground into a powder and provide a rich source of soluble fibre. Within the digestive system, soluble fibre absorbs water to help slow down digestion and the absorption of various nutrients contained within your food. Due to its excellent water solubility, Psyllium husk can absorb water and may provide various benefits for supporting your overall well-being. Capsules or Powder? Jovanovski E, Yashpal S, Komishon A, et al. Effect of psyllium (Plantago ovata) fiber on LDL cholesterol and alternative lipid targets, non-HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutri. 2018;108(5):922-32. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy115 Psyllium Husk Powder, providing a 100% pure, premium source of dietary fibre, with 1.6g in a single 2g serving. Taking psyllium means you may have trouble absorbing all the fat in your diet, resulting in issues absorbing fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E, and K. Moreover, psyllium might interfere with the absorption of some minerals such as iron, calcium, and zinc [5].

Psyllium can also be used to help relieve mild to moderate diarrhea. It’s beneficial to diarrhea sufferers because it soaks up a significant amount of water in the digestive tract, which helps make the stool firmer and slower to pass through the system. 2. Can Help Lower CholesterolThe powder comes from psyllium seed, whereas the whole psyllium comes from the husk and can be mixed with many different substances. Studies suggest taking psyllium at mealtimes can encourage feelings of fullness and reduce hunger between meals. 11However, research into the impact of psyllium on weight management is currently inconsistent. More studies will hopefully unravel the connection (if any) with weight loss. Summary Brum, Jose M., et al. "Satiety effects of psyllium in healthy volunteers." Appetite 105 (2016): 27-36. Gibb RD, McRorie JW Jr, Russell DA, et al. Psyllium fiber improves glycemic control proportional to loss of glycemic control: a meta-analysis of data in euglycemic subjects, patients at risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and patients being treated for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015 Dec;102(6):1604-14. doi:10.3945/ajcn.115.106989 Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

In people with constipation, psyllium usually produces a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours. You can use the supplement regularly to get the most benefit from it and to make your bowel movements more regular. It may take a few days before you feel the full benefits of psyllium husk [5].

How Much Psyllium Husk Should I Take Per Day?

Ziai SA, et al. (2005). Psyllium decreased serumglucose and glycosylated hemoglobin significantly in diabetic outpatients. DOI: Because of its effects on the gut microbiome, taking psyllium can boost immune function, reduce inflammation and help your body maintain healthy tissues and cells. Does psyllium husk affect vitamin absorption? Bruma Jose M. Satiety effects of psyllium in healthy volunteers. Appetite. 2016;105:27-36. doi:10.1016/j.appet.2016.04.041 SebelyP, et al. (2010). The effect of a fibre supplement compared to a healthy dieton body composition, lipids, glucose, insulin and other metabolic syndrome riskfactors in overweight and obese individuals. DOI: In this ultimate grocery shopper’s guide, you’ll know the best places where to find psyllium husk at your local store as well as some other ways to get your hands on the healthy stuff. Find your favorite health food retailer and buy psyllium husk the right way with these helpful tips!