What is small, soluble, slimy but has the might of Metamucil®? Psyllium fiber! The use of this beloved seed and seed husk, predates the 80-year reign of fiber supplements such as Metamucil®. As a dietary supplement, psyllium fiber, derived from the husks of the seeds of Plantago ovata, is an herbaceous annual plant native to parts of Asia, Africa, and Northern Europe. Not only does psyllium seed provide a variety of vitamins and minerals including magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc, and phosphorus, it is considered to be one of the most effective, naturally available sources of soluble fiber.
The main benefit of psyllium fiber is its ability to provide bulk in the digestive tract and promote regularity by helping to ease constipation. The effectiveness of fiber, particularly psyllium, on constipation depends on the root cause of the constipation. Psyllium may also help reduce chronic constipation symptoms by increasing fecal bulk and helping regulate bowel movements more efficiently. For those individuals who suffer from mild symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), psyllium is often recommended as part of a treatment plan to boost dietary fiber and hydration, gently support bowel elimination and microbiome health.*
Psyllium fiber also binds to toxins in your intestines and helps them pass out of the body more quickly.* This offers numerous health benefits in weight management, digestive health, and constipation relief. Psyllium's ability to absorb water and form a gel-like consistency may also be helpful in reducing blood pressure. When taken with meals, it can help slow down the body's absorption of carbohydrates and other nutrients, thus giving the heart time to relax while maintaining normal blood pressure.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not meant to diagnose‚ treat or cure any disease or medical condition.
