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regularity. It is prescribed for chronic constipation, constipation associated with illness or
pregnancy, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation linked to duodenal ulcers or
diverticulitis. It is also beneficial for softening stools in individuals with hemorrhoids or
those recovering from anorectal surgery.
By increasing stool bulk and water content, psyllium shortens intestinal transit time and
promotes easier bowel movements. In a clinical study, psyllium demonstrated greater
efficacy than docusate sodium in patients with chronic idiopathic constipation. Additionally,
it has been shown to be effective in the short-term management of diarrhea of various
causes.
Weight Management:
Psyllium can aid in weight control programs by promoting satiety and reducing overall fat
intake. It achieves this by delaying intestinal absorption and inhibiting pancreatic enzymes
such as amylase, which contributes to a longer feeling of fullness.
Cholesterol Reduction:
Psyllium enhances the elimination of cholesterol and bile acids through fecal excretion
without interfering with cholesterol synthesis. It helps lower total and low-density
lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels by reducing dietary fat absorption. While some studies
have shown an increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and a reduction in
triglycerides, others reported no significant change in these parameters.
Glucose Regulation:
In individuals with type 2 diabetes, psyllium supplementation has been found to
significantly improve fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels.
Prevention of Gallstones:
Psyllium hydrocolloid acts as a bile acid sequestrant, leading to an increased
cholic/chenodeoxycholic acid ratio, which helps protect against cholesterol gallstone
formation. It lowers the biliary cholesterol saturation index by selectively decreasing biliary
cholesterol and chenodeoxycholic acid concentrations, thus reducing the risk of gallstone
development.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Ulcerative Colitis:
In patients with irritable bowel syndrome, psyllium has been shown to improve stool
consistency and frequency, as well as alleviate abdominal pain and bloating. The herb may
also reduce intestinal transit time, providing additional relief in such conditions.

Warnings
Psyllium seed products should always be taken with sufficient amounts of liquid, and at
least half an hour after other medications to prevent delayed absorption of the latter. If
bleeding or no response occurs after ingesting the drug, or if abdominal pain occurs 48

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