Psyllium
Psyllium, a bulk-forming laxative, is used to treat constipation.
It absorbs liquid in the intestines, swells, then forms bulky
stool, which is then more easily passed. Interest in psyllium
has arisen recently mainly due to its use in high-fiber breakfast
cereals and from claims that high-fiber cereals containing
psyllium are effective in reducing cholesterol levels. The
US currently imports and consumes more than 8000 metric tons
of psyllium annually.
The name psyllium refers to a subgenus of plants in the plantain
genus (Plantago). These plants have very small seeds
— a thousand seeds weigh less than two grams. The psyllium
seed coat is the portion typically used, and although its
main use has been as a laxative it is more appropriately termed
a true dietary fiber.
Psyllium can cause side effects:
- difficulty breathing
- stomach pain
- difficulty swallowing
- skin rash
- itching
- upset stomach
- vomiting
Popular brand names include:
- Fiberall®
- Hydrocil Instant®
- Konsyl®
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- Metamucil®
- Modane Bulk Powder®
- Perdiem Fiber®
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Principal Authors: DermaHarmony Editorial
Team
Date of Initial Publication: 10/19/2006
Article Last Updated: 08/26/2009
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