Psyllium, what it is and how to use it for your well-being

Not all superfoods are known in the same way: they psyllium is perhaps one of the least “trendy” and well-known to most people, but those who use it know how beneficial and versatile it is to wear on the table every day, in many different preparations.

But what is psyllium? The scientific name is Plantago Ovata and belongs to the Plantaginaceae family: it is a herbaceous plant widespread in various parts of the world, including North Africa, India, the Middle East and some areas of southern Europe.

Psyllium is usually consumed in its seeds and husks: the husks are more effective because they are more voluminous for the same weight. The “superpower” of this superfood, in fact, is the ability to gel, thanks to the mucilages which contains: some polysaccharide compounds water-soluble which swell upon contact with water.

It is, therefore, a particular type of fiber that is much less "aggressive" on the internal mucous membranes than others, with a beneficial and anti-inflammatory effect on the digestive system.

But let's look in detail at the benefits of psyllium and for which types of problems it can be indicated.

The Natural Bio psyllium husks are organic and 99% pure: this means that they are controlled, certified and not mixed with other foreign materials; they are also VeganOK certified, without GMOs, gluten or lactose.

Psyllium, all the health benefits

In addition to its thickening and soothing capacity, psyllium is also rich in precious micronutrients and is truly multi-purpose in its benefits.

Regulation of the proper functioning of the digestive system, in particular the intestine

A true panacea for gastro-intestinal problems: the fiber Psyllium can also be used for apparently opposite problems.

For example, those suffering fromconstipationwill find great benefit from the peristalsis-supporting effect of psyllium: its ability to increase in volume in contact with water helps to ensure transit optimal.

Those who suffer from episodes of diarrhea and attacks of colitis will be helped by the thickening capacity of psyllium husks.

In addition, this plant has prebiotic capabilities, which means that it supports the growth of “good” intestinal flora, which guarantees the well-being of the entire organism.

Even those suffering from localized pathologies such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures will have great relief from taking psyllium, which helps form and expel a soft mass.

And not just intestinal well-being, the stomach is also helped: the properties of psyllium improve discomfort related to gastroesophageal reflux e ai heartburn.

In some cases, due to its prebiotic and protective power of the intestinal mucosa as well as its ability to thicken, it can also be useful for people affected by IBD, such as ulcerative colitis and Chron's disease, but as these are serious pathologies it is always a good idea to consult your specialist doctor before introducing new foods in the diet, especially in the acute phases of the disorder.

Support in maintaining blood sugar and fat levels

In addition to the gastrointestinal system, there are other disorders whose symptoms may benefit from psyllium. Those who mustkeep blood sugar and fat levels under control, for example, should take psyllium fiber before meals: this, in fact,reduces the absorption of lipids and carbohydrates, allowing you to monitor triglycerides and blood sugar levels at blood level.

This ability is also very useful for those who have undertaken a weight loss journey for health reasons or for those who simply want to keep fit.

How to use psyllium seeds and husks in cooking

Using pure psyllium cuticles is certainly more natural and healthier than taking the same processed product with the addition of flavorings or colorings.

In fact, precisely because of its lack of flavour, this product can be used in a thousand ways in the kitchen, both in sweet and savory preparations.

Very suitable to be consumed cold, mixed with water and fruit juices and drunk immediately, it is perfect for giving consistency to dense and greedy dishes smoothie prepared with seasonal fruit and vegetables.

Alsoin yogurt is perfect for breakfast bowls rich in healthy fiber and also satiating.

But psyllium does not lose its properties if heated, so it is also perfect when used in bread, sweets and baked goods, crunchy crackers and biscuits.

Not only that, for those who follow a vegan diet or plant-based, is an excellent egg substitute, thanks to its agglomerating action, which gives elasticity to the dough.

Psyllium: warnings on doses and contraindications

We should always follow the rule of moderation, in everything: even a superfood as beneficial as psyllium, in fact, can give some contraindications in case of excessive or too prolonged dosage.

For gastro-intestinal health reasons, for example, it is best not to exceed the dose of 5-10 grams per day, for cycles no longer than a week, and then stop.

The main warning is that of drinking lots of liquids together with the product is essential to ensure correct gelling in the stomach and to dissolve its fibres.

In particular, in the case of serious inflammatory pathologies affecting the digestive system, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor before taking any support or supplement to your diet.

Finally, there are cases of allergy to this plant: in this case, its consumption should be absolutely avoided.