Psyllium is grown in northwestern India and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. The husk of psyllium seeds is composed almost exclusively of hemi-cellulose that acts in the intestine like a sponge, gives consistency to the stool, stimulates peristalsis. The mucilage and fiber of Psyllium can, in case of constipation, allow the slipping of stool. It is an excellent non-caloric source of soluble fibers (eight times better than oat bran).
Tips on how to take Psyllium
- It should be taken by mixing a teaspoon of Psyllium in liquid or aqueous substances such as: water, juice, soup, coffee, stew etc ... Shake until there is a uniform mixture AND drink immediately. Then drink another glass of liquid. Because Psyllium is an absorbent fiber that draws fluids from the intestine, it is recommended to stay hydrated during use.
- In some cases it can cause gas, which is normal since our body has an adaptation period, if this is the case; We recommend reducing the dose and drinking plenty of water. If the symptom persists, stop completely and immediately resume it very progressively.
In general, you start with small doses. A teaspoon of coffee a day and gradually increase until you find your optimal dose,
- The daily dose will depend on your need and response. The medical body states that overdose is "unlikely." It only takes enough water to get the psyllium well into the stomach.
- Everyone must find their optimal amount based on the results obtained. According to the European Medicines Agency, the effective dose can reach 30 or 40 gr. of psyllium a day, corresponding to two tablespoons 3 times a day (EMEA 2006b)
- It can be taken at the time of day that you want as long as it does not coincide with any medication; You can also take it before meals if you want to lose fat, as it is an excellent natural hunger suppressor.
- If you are taking other medicines, such as minerals (calcium, iron, lithium, zinc), vitamins (vitamin B12), medicines to prevent blood clotting (so-called coumarin derivatives) or medicines for the use of heart diseases of the a type of so-called digitalis, you should take Psyllium 1 hour before or after taking your medicine. since fiber could make it difficult to absorb.
- You should not take Psyllium if you are taking drugs for diarrhea or drugs that impede the motility of the intestine (such as diphenoxylate, loperamide, opiates), because an intestinal obstruction may appear.
- How long it takes to notice the effects.
- Generally its effect begins to be noticed between the first and second day (24 to 48 hours) of "continuous" use.
