Psyllium fiber — answers to Psyllium husk
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Psyllium fiber comes from the husk of the Plantago ovata plant seed. It is a soluble, gel-forming fiber that swells with water and is used both as a food ingredient and a fiber supplement.
Why it’s used
Taken to add bulk and soften stool for regularity, and taken by some with interest in supporting cholesterol levels already within a healthy range.
What the evidence is for
increasing stool frequency in constipation and modestly lowering LDL cholesterol.
What the evidence says
Psyllium has a long history of clinical study, and the FDA recognizes an authorized health claim linking psyllium soluble fiber intake to a reduced risk of coronary heart disease when included in a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Clinical trial evidence, summarized in Cochrane and other systematic reviews, also supports psyllium's effect on stool frequency and consistency in constipation. Effects on cholesterol are generally modest.
Dose studied
5–10 g — daily soluble fiber doses studied for bowel regularity and cholesterol.
Context
The FDA's health claim is based on studies using about 7 g per day of soluble fiber from psyllium; constipation trials have generally used similar amounts, often in the range of about 5 to 10 g per day taken with adequate fluid.
Educational information, not medical or safety advice. Consult a professional for allergies or medical concerns.