The seeds of ispaghula husk (also called psyllium or psyllium husk) are found in the form of powder or pod and are a source of soluble fiber useful in the treatment of digestive problems such as constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids and irritable bowel syndrome. These seeds absorb the water present in the digestive tract creating a greater volume. Some studies associate the consumption of this fiber with a reduction in heart disease, diabetes and hypercholesterolemia.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Choose the Product
Step 1. Talk to your doctor before purchasing ispaghula husk products if you are on drug therapy, as they may reduce the absorption of medicines in the digestive tract
Step 2. Buy spaghula husk in powder form such as Fiberall or Metamucil
The advantage of these products is that they are flavored to reduce the unpleasant taste of the powder when it is added to water. The ispaghula content is about 70%.
Step 3. Look for generic psyllium products at health food stores or drugstores
They are usually 100% pure because they are not flavored. People take them with a juice.
Step 4. Read the instructions on the packaging before taking these products, as well as relying on this article
Some may not be compatible with medications or chronic conditions.
Part 2 of 2: Taking the Product
Step 1. Take half a teaspoon of psyllium powder as your first dose
It is always wise to add fiber to your diet gradually to minimize any discomfort, bloating, and flatulence.
Step 2. Add 0.8g of psyllium to 200ml of water or juice
Stir for no more than 10 seconds.
Step 3. Drink the mixture immediately
Psyllium quickly turns into a gel. You may choke if you drink it in semi-solid form.
If the mixture has already become gelatinous, throw it away and prepare more
Step 4. Increase the dosage to 1.6g in 240ml of water after a week or two
Drink the mixture in the morning or in the evening. Your doctor may recommend a higher dosage if you have severe diarrhea or constipation.
To treat hypercholesterolemia, 10-12 g of psyllium may be needed. It is about 2-3 teaspoons divided into lower intakes (throughout the day) and dissolved in 240-480 ml of water
Step 5. If you can't swallow the liquid mix, consider purchasing ispaghula husk pods
Take a small bite and chew it very well. This way you can be sure that it begins to increase in volume when it reaches the stomach.
Step 6. If you can't stand the powder or pods, take the capsules
Take one with a large glass of water.
Warnings
- Do not give children any ispaghula husk products. They should get the necessary amount of fiber from their diet alone.
- Do not use psyllium-based products to replace the fiber intake that you should get with your diet. Dietary sources of fiber are oatmeal, lentils, apples, oranges, oat bran, pears, strawberries, walnuts, flax seeds, beans, cucumbers, celery and carrots.
