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Home , Gluten, Psyllium

Psyllium

Psyllium is also known as ispaghula and isabgol. It is Derived from the of ovata. Pure Essentials organic Psyllium Husks are a natural remedy for bowel problems. The ultimate roughage, or dietary fire, Psyllium Husk is the main ingredient of pharmaceutical , like ‘Metamucil’. As a gluten- free ingredient, it is popular for people with gluten intolerance and Celiac Disease. Psyllium Husks are used as a thickener, and as an egg substitute for its binding properties. It is used as a for its ability to expand and become mucilaginous, allowing for easy bowel evacuation.

• Psyllium also known as ispaghula or isabgol • It is gluten-free. • It is derived from the Plantago ovata plant native to India, Bangladesh and . • Each plant can produce up to 15,000 tiny, gel-coated , from which psyllium husk is derived. • Has visible dark brown flecks which are the fibrous husk particles. • Medications like ‘Metamucil’ are thinly disguised psyllium husks, with additives: aspartane (an artificial sweetener), citric acid, maltodextrin (a ), and artificial colours and flavours. • Compared to over-the-counter bowel medications, psyllium husks are an inexpensive, natural . • Psyllium husks are the indigestible husks of psyllium seeds. They are the ultimate ‘roughage’, or dietary fibre. • Used for centuries as a natural remedy to relieve the symptoms of bowel irregularities. • Unlike stimulant laxatives, psyllium husk is gentle and not addictive.

Cooking with Psyllium Husks

• Psyllium is a popular ingredient used in gluten-free . • It is used to bind moisture. • Psyllium may be used in , meatballs, soups, meatloaves, cakes and smoothies. • Used as a thickener for ice-creams and frozen desserts. • Effective egg substitute. Mix 1 teaspoon of psyllium to 2 tablespoons of water. Stir vigorously. • Has excellent binding properties. Add a couple of teaspoons to your pancakes, breads and cake recipes. • It is vital to make sure your water intake is at least 1.5 litres a day if eating a high-fibre diet, and this certainly applies when using psyllium.

Health Benefits and Therapeutic Applications of Psyllium Husks

• Psyllium is an indigestible source of soluble . • It is hygroscopic, allowing it to expand and become mucilaginous. • Used as a dietary supplement to improve and maintain regular gastrointestinal transit. • As it passes through the intestines, it gathers water and transforms into a gelatinous-like ‘mucilage’, which softens and gathers waste for easy evacuation from the bowel. • Improves the symptoms of , , irritable bowel, haemorrhoids, and colitis. • Psyllium may be effective in reducing . • Helps to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. • Improves glycemic control for people with .

* Care must be taken to ensure adequate fluids are consumed when taking psyllium. The standard dose is 3.5 g stirred briskly into 250 ml of water and consumed immediately prior to gelation.