Can Psyllium Husk Fight in Reducing Cholesterol Level?

Posted in FAQ - 7 February 2012 - No comment -

High cholesterol levels can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other major diseases that are among the top causes of mortality. In 2004, an advertisement about a healthy cereal snack informed people about the benefits of Psyllium Husk in fighting cholesterol. However, not everyone knows what it is and how it lowers the body’s cholesterol level.

Psyllium husk is obtained from Plantago ovate plant. This herb is native in some parts of North Africa, Asia, and even in the Mediterranean. The seeds of Plantago ovata plant are crushed to produce Psyllium Husk. These seeds have been used as herbal treatment many years ago. Psyllium is also fiber-rich just like oats and wheat. Because of that, Psyllium husk was used in treating constipation as a gentle bulk-forming laxative.

Does Psyllium Husk Help in Fighting Cholesterol

Prior to the informative TV advertisement in 2004, Psyllium Husk was already approved and claimed by the FDA in reducing levels of blood cholesterol.

  • It was stated that when a Low Fat Diet was added with 3 – 12 grams of fiber from Psyllium Husk, the chance of reducing the risk of coronary diseases was increased up to 50 percent.
  • Researchers also found out that Psyllium can lower the body’s total cholesterol and LDL levels (low density lipoprotein levels) or what are known as “BAD CHOLESTEROL.”
  • More studies and researches have been conducted and are still being conducted to find out more potential benefits from the crushed Plantago ovata seeds.
  • Psyllium can also work well if it is combined with low cholesterol drugs. However, it is still advisable to take doctor’s advice and ask about it.
  • Due to the results of studies conducted, manufacturers of food products like healthy food snacks consider Psyllium Husk to be one of their major ingredients to fight cholesterol.

Other Benefits of Psyllium Husk

Aside from fighting cholesterol, Psyliium husk also has other health benefits.

  • Psyllium Husk is also known for its traditional use. It can also alleviate constipation because of its high soluble fiber content.
  • Recently, studies have shown that Psyllium Husk can also help in curing Crohn’s Disease and Colitis.
  • Another benefit of this helpful husk is that it can act as a prebiotic.
  • Psyllium husk can be used to heal and cure inflamed intestines.
  • It can also help in normalizing the pH levels of the intestines; thus, avoiding acidity and alkalinity.

Because of these benefits, Psyllium husk is now one of the most popular natural remedies.

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