Psyllium Husk (Plantago ovata)
Benefits of Psyllium Husk
- Digestion
- Fibre intake
- Form: Powder
- Where it's from: Mediterranean regions and Southern Asia.
What is Psyllium Husk?
Plantago ovata is a shrub-like herb native to Mediterranean regions and Southern Asia, also called blond plantain or Psyllium. The husk of the seeds of this plant and others in the Plantago family is an excellent source of plant-based fibre, and fibre is absolutely vital in our diet.
The molecular make-up of fibre is tougher to break down than other carbohydrates, so it passes through our gut without being digested. Psyllium husk is mostly soluble fibre, which absorbs water and forms a gel.
What does the research say about Psyllium Husk?
Researchers have reviewed dietary fibre and the gut, and a clinical trial compared psyllium with a mixed soluble and insoluble fibre, looking at bowel habits.
Psyllium has also been studied for its effects on LDL cholesterol and other blood lipid markers, and on satiety (the sensation of being 'full') and other measures related to body weight.
According to the National Diet and Nutrition Survey, up to 90% of adults in the UK don't eat enough fibre. Easy ways to increase your fibre consumption are through brown instead of white carbohydrates like wholegrain bread, pasta and rice, as well as beans and lentils.
You may be interested in reading 'Latest gut health customer survey: IBS causes & signs revealed', 'What is IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)?' and 'IBS explained'.
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