Although most people see psyllium husks as only being of benefit in cases of constipation, it has other beneficial effects as well.  Not only does it shorten the gastrointestinal transit time, but it also increases stool weight and the level of stool moisture.  It is helpful in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and helps in the reduction of cholesterol

Psyllium can be taken in seed or powder form, depending on your individual health requirement

Psyllium husk fiber is an outstanding insoluble fiber that supports your digestive health, and unlike a lot of the other fiber products that you might find at popular stores, psyllium husk, taken by itself, has no sweeteners, no artificial flavors, no colors or any other questionable ingredients. Simply put a tablespoon of psyllium husk powder into a tall glass of water, stir it quickly and chug it down before it gels up

To prevent constipation, drink plenty of fluids, exercise regularly, and eat a high-fiber diet, including whole-grain (e.g., bran) cereals, fruits, and vegetables.

Studies have shown psyllium to be quite effective in lowering total as well as LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels, which can be helpful to those with high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) and those at increased risk for developing hypercholesterolemia, such as people with type 2 diabetes.

Psyllium can be used as a bulk-forming agent to help relieve mild to moderate diarrhea. Psyllium soaks up a significant amount of water in the digestive tract, thereby making stool firmer and, under these circumstances, slower to pass.

Irreitable Bowel Syndrome: Several well-designed studies have found that soluble fiber (including psyllium) helps regulate stool frequency and consistency in people with IBS. Psyllium also has the additional advantages over other sources of fiber of reducing flatulence and bloating.

The suggested intake of psyllium husks to treat constipation is 1 teaspoon (approximately 5 grams) three times per day. Alternatively, some references suggest taking 2–6 teaspoons (10–30 grams) otf he whole seeds per day—typically taken in three even amounts throughout the day. This is stirred into a large glass of water or juice and drunk immediately before it thickens.

Side effects: May cause gastrointestinal discomfort if taken in very large amounts

Article:

Psyllium husk - - what is it? Psyllium husk is an herbal supplement taken by many to get the fiber they need for their diet. Psyllium husks are the coating around the seed of the psyllium plant. While the seeds are used for their own herbal values, the husks are usually harvested and placed into capsules to be taken in supplement form.

A dietary intake of certain fibers has been shown through studies to alleviate the risks of colon cancer, and the fibers are also known to help ease constipation. Psyllium plays a role in promoting colon health since poor waste elimination by the body can result in a buildup of waste byproducts in the body. The waste byproducts can then lead to bacteria and viruses attacking your colon, compromising your immune system and creating sickness in the body. For this reason, regular normal bowel movements can be crucial to maintaining proper health. Other benefits of regular bowel movements can be their promotion of weight loss, and a chance at lowering low density lipoproteins, the "bad' type of cholesterol.

There are many ways for you to get the fiber your body needs, however, psyllium husks are a particularly rich source. In India, psyllium has been used for thousands of years for the therapeutic qualities we’ve discussed. Western medicine has finally begun catching on to the importance of fiber, and the demand for psyllium husks has gone through the roof.

Psyllium husks are composed primarily of complex carbohydrates. Other uses of these carbohydrates include their helping of diarrhea, since it has binding properties that may help restore normal movements. Also, these compounds may help alleviate hemorrhoids and counter Cystitis. In addition, psyllium husks harbor anti-inflammatory properties and does not cause the irritation that can be found when taking insoluble fibers. Also, blood sugar levels of those with diabetes may improve with use of the husk.

John Gibb manages http://www.nutritional-supplement-guides.com

An updated website and blog dedicated to quality nutrition.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/