Psyllium husk fibre supplements: uses and benefits

Psyllium husk fibre supplements: uses and benefits

Psyllium husk is a form of fibre which comes from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant, which mostly grows in India. The husk forms the outer coating of the psyllium seed and is a rich source of fibre, which makes it extremely beneficial for gut health. Psyllium husk is most commonly taken to improve digestion and constipation, but also offers a number of other benefits.

Digestive health


Psyllium acts as a laxative by soaking up water in the gut, which makes bowel movements easier and more regular. Psyllium husk fibre supplements can be taken daily to maintain digestive health and regular bowel movements, or as a one-off to help ease constipation. 

Psyllium is also a prebiotic which helps feed the “good” bacteria in the gut, allowing them to thrive and grow in numbers. These good bacteria form part of the gut microbiome, which consists of a combination of good and potentially harmful bacteria. A healthy microbiome contains plenty of good bacteria, which help support a healthy immune system, reduce inflammation, regulate appetite, optimise energy, and reduce likelihood of developing mental health conditions, such as depression.

Manage blood sugar levels


Research suggests that taking fibre-based supplements such as psyllium husk may help manage blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. By changing the body's glycemic response to a meal and slowing down digestion, psyllium can reduce insulin and blood sugar levels.

Lower cholesterol and improve heart health


Psyllium binds to fat and bile acids forming a gel-like substance that helps the body excrete them. The liver is responsible for making bile acids and requires the use of cholesterol in order to replace those that are lost. As a result, this can help reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of diseases associated with high cholesterol, such as heart disease.


Psyllium husk may also increase levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, which help remove other forms of cholesterol in the bloodstream, which also increases the risk of heart disease.

Aid weight loss


Pysllium husk fibre supplements may assist weight loss and help control appetite. By absorbing liquid in your body and forming viscous compounds, as well as slowing down digestion, psyllium can increase feelings of fullness and reduce hunger. 


Boost your gut health and improve digestion with New Leaf’s Psyllium Husk Fibre Supplements. These fibre husks are a rich source of soluble dietary fibre that work their way through the digestive system to produce a thick, viscous compound that helps to bulk stools,  making them easier to pass. Each capsule contains 1600mg of psyllium husk, as well as being enriched with probiotic Lactobacillus Acidophilus, which helps balance the good bacteria in your digestive system.

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