Psyllium husks not only support successful weight loss, they are also beneficial for intestinal health, relieve gastrointestinal complaints and help people with diabetes effectively lower their blood sugar.
Psyllium husks (commonly referred to as psyllium in medicine) are very low in calories, making them ideal for supporting weight loss.
Reduce constipation and help with diarrhea
Thanks to the abundant mucilage they contain, they also help fight constipation by stimulating the activity of the intestines. At the same time, they can solidify the stool if you have diarrhea because they remove water from the intestines.
Protect against free radicals
Another advantage of psyllium husks is that they contain so-called flavonoids, which effectively protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Psyllium husk forms an indigestible gel
Current meta-analyses report that psyllium husk is a predominantly soluble fiber that forms a viscous gel when hydrated and is not digested or fermented.
Slowed absorption of nutrients
According to the researchers, if this gel gets into the small intestine, it increases the so-called viscosity of the chyme present there and thereby slows down the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.
Reduces blood sugar levels in diabetes
Ingestion of psyllium husk reduces blood sugar levels in people with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, while serum cholesterol is reduced in people with hypercholesterolemia, the team explains.
Help you lose weight and reduce waist circumference
According to the researchers, the meta-analysis of six studies shows that psyllium husks are effective in reducing body weight and waist circumference when consumed shortly before a meal by people who are overweight or obese.
Relieve gastrointestinal complaints
In further research this year, the experts involved found that psyllium husks are a viscous, gel-forming fiber that helps relieve gastrointestinal problems.
Taken together, the results make it clear that psyllium husks are a natural yet very effective way to address various intestinal-related problems such as constipation and diarrhea. Additionally, they support the achievement of a healthy body weight and are even beneficial for lowering cholesterol and blood sugar in people with certain existing medical conditions. (as)