Psyllium husk for weight loss

Psyllium husk is also well-known under the names isphagula and isabgol. It is the covering of the seeds of the plant called Plantago Psyllium, which is cultivated in the Middle East, Asia, Europe and North Africa. Psyllium husk can be found in the form of capsules, but there is also psyllium husk powder. It is rich in dietary fiber in its natural form as well as in the form of supplements, and therefore it is widely used, particularly for treating constipation and for weight loss.

When psyllium husk is consumed, it travels through the digestive tract collecting water and toxins. It tends to swell due to water and thus the stools become bulkier and softer. For this reason, the people who suffer from constipation usually opt for psyllium husk supplements since they treat this condition very effectively.

Health benefits of psyllium husk

Psyllium husk has many health benefits, and apart from being very good for constipation, it also reduces the pain which hemorrhoids cause. Furthermore, in people with diabetes, psyllium husk reduces the level of blood sugar. It is also proven that it is very effective as a natural laxative and as a good colon cleanser. Moreover, heartburn, bloating, flatulence, diarrhea and high cholesterol can be treated with psyllium husk.

Psyllium husk for weight loss

Psyllium husk is also widely used for weight loss since it is made of a fiber which is easily dissolved. However, it is very hard for digestion and therefore, it significantly reduces the appetite in those who consume it.

It is considered that people who consume high fat diet can lose body weight if they include psyllium husk in their diet since it assists in passing more fat substances into the stools. Moreover, the psyllium husk pushes the foods which are not ingested completely out of the body faster, which is why the fat absorption is not high. The sensation of full stomach can be brought about by consuming psyllium husk, which is why people who consume it eat less and lose they weight very quickly.

Precautions of psyllium husk for weight loss

One should keep in mind that psyllium husk is not a fat burner and that a healthy diet and regular exercises are required in order to lose the body weight. There are people who should avoid consummation of psyllium husk, such as expecting mothers, children under 7 years of age, those who suffer from diabetes and people who have problems with stomach and swallowing.