Isabgol is commonly known as Psyllium husk. It acts as a wetting agent that increases the stomach’s bulk density to help increase the stool and thereby promote laxation. Isabgol seeds are sweet, mucilaginous, laxative, astringent, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and it is a perfect tonic for the stomach. It is an annual dwarf herb that can grow up to the height of 40 cm. If we go by the actual meaning of Isabgol, that is “Isap” and “ghol,” which means horse ear, the shape of Isabgol seed.
Isabgol is cultivated in India’s cool and dry places due to the extreme water-absorbing property of seed husk. Isabgol plant has narrow and long leaves, which contains 30% insoluble and 70% soluble fiber. The crust, plant, and seed all together are referred to be “Psyllium.” Psyllium is a concentrated source of soluble fiber, and it is separated from the psyllium seed by milling, which is a mechanical process. The main product of Isabgol is Psyllium husk.
Treats Constipation
Isabgol works as a bulk-forming natural laxative, as the richness of both soluble and insoluble fibre in the herb adds bulk to stools and ease constipation. The gelatinous substance present in Isabgol forms a gel when soaked in water, the laxative properties of the gel absorb bacteria and harmful toxins in the intestine. It increases the lubrication inside the stomach wall which aids in treating constipation.
To relieve the symptoms of constipation, mix a teaspoon of isabgol in warm water or milk and drink this on an empty stomach for a few weeks.
Lowers Cholesterol
Isabgol binds to fats and bile acids which allows the excretion of cholesterol from the body. Isabgol increases bile acids synthesis and lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and remarkably increases good cholesterol (HDL). Moreover, it also controls further absorption of cholesterol and triglycerides from the food and reduces the risk of heart disease.
Promotes Gut Health
Isabgol is a powerful detoxifier that works well in cleansing the gastrointestinal wall and remove all unwanted toxins. It supports the healthy functioning of the digestive tract by cleansing the passage and allows the food to pass through the intestinal tract. Regular intake of isabgol acts as a digestive stimulant and offers instant relief from stomach ulcers, acidity, colitis and other digestive problems
Regulates Blood Sugar
A good source of dietary fibre in the diet helps to delay the gastric emptying time, slow down the absorption of glucose and maintain the blood glucose levels. The goodness of fibre and natural gelatin substance in isabgol is well-known to significantly reduce blood sugar spike and control diabetes.
It is well known that fiber intake can help control the body’s glycemic response towards a meal, which facilitates the reduction of insulin and blood sugar levels. Also, the well-known water-absorbing property of Isabgol can help form a gel in the stomach, which can slow down the digestion process and regulate blood sugar levels. A scientific study showed that intake of 10g of Isabgol two times a day could reduce the risk of type-2 diabetes.
Promotes Weight Loss
This herb is an amazing natural remedy that can help in losing weight. Isabgol can control appetite and detoxify the system. The dietary fibre forms a viscous compound that curbs the food cravings, increases satiety, reduces body weight, lowers the Body Mass Index and overall fat intake. Thus, isabgol helps in reducing calorie intake and promoting weight loss
Isabgol and its benefits in maintaining heart health
It is well known that all types of fiber are good for the heart. The American Heart Association (AHA) states that dietary fiber intake helps manage good and bad cholesterol in the body, which will directly impact reducing the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and obesity. There are scientific studies that show that intake of Isabgol in diet can reduce triglycerides in the body for avoiding the risk of stroke. The scientific studies showed that the intake of 10.2 g of Isabgol per day could effectively reduce LDL cholesterol.
Diarrhea and Isabgol relation
The scientific literature shows that intake of Isabgol regularly can help relieve diarrhea by increasing the thickness of stool, which can slow down it’s passing through the colon. In the case of patients suffering from lactulose-induced diarrhea, the intake of 3.5 g Isabgol three times daily can improve their stomach emptying time. This, therefore, helps to reduce diarrhea and normalize bowel movements.
Side Effects
Isabgol is well tolerated by most of the individuals, however, if taken in large quantities may have certain side effects like bloating, flatulence and abdominal cramps. If you are sensitive to fiber then isabgol may show some allergic reactions like itching, rashes and breathing difficulty immediately upon consuming it.
Role of Isabgol in Satiety and weight loss
All fibers have the property to form a viscous fluid, which will help control weight loss and satiety. One more mechanism of controlling weight gain is by slowing down stomach emptying and reducing appetite, which controls calorie intake by the body. Isabgol supplements can easily fit into this need. The desire for food and hunger can be reduced when one can take up to 10g of Isabgol before breakfast and lunch. Isabgol supplements can also help in the management of fat and body mass index.
Isabgol as a Prebiotic
Prebiotics are compounds that are mostly indigestible but helps in promoting the growth of intestinal bacteria or probiotics. Scientific reports are stating that Isabgol has prebiotic properties. The part of Isabgol is fermentable, and short-chain fatty acids like butyrate are the product of it. This short-chain fatty acid is known to possess excellent health benefits.
What is the right time to take Isabgol?
It is well known that Isabgol has a laxative property; therefore, it can be taken after a meal at night to correct constipation.
Can I take Isabgol during loose motions?
Yes, it can be taken during loose motion issues. Isabgol has excellent anti-diarrheal property, and thus it retards the growth of non-important bacteria in the intestine, which are responsible for loose motions.
Can I take Isabgol during pregnancy?
It is not very clear whether it should be taken during pregnancy due to a lack of scientific evidence, and in this situation, it is advised to consult the family doctor.
Can I take Isabgol daily?
Yes, Isabgol can help in digestion and relieve constipation as well if Anyone facing a digestion problem can consume it daily.
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