Whole Psyllium Seed Husk

Plantago ovata, or psyllium, is a seed plant native to India. The hulls of the psyllium seed are very high in soluble fibre. It’s the kind of fibre that bulks up and dissolves in water, due to its mucilaginous (or in layman's terms, slimy) properties. This slimy, gelling, mucousy fibre is not absorbed through the digestive tract and into the body, but instead stays in the intestines. Here it helps to slow the release of digested carbohydrates, provide bulk to stool for soft, consistent bowel movements and help to bind and pull toxins and excess cholesterol out of our colon and into the toilet. 

These prebiotic fibres are important for fuel for our microbiota - the trillions of bacteria and other single-celled organisms that make our digestive tract home. When these bacteria are happily balanced, there are sufficient good guys to keep the bad guys at bay. The good guys, when living in the right part of the digestive tract, break down our undigested fibres and create acids to protect our colon, make certain B vitamins and play a huge role in our immune, mental, digestive and inflammatory health. When out of balance, bad bacteria can produce gases (leading to flatulence, bloating and pain), which not only affects our digestive health but our overall health and wellness.  

Soluble fibre, like that found in psyllium husks, also helps with overeating, satiety and weight loss. It helps to fill our stomach, telling our brain it’s full. By keeping our blood sugar levels balanced, it also helps with decreasing cravings and snacking. 

Whole psyllium seed husk

DIRECTIONS FOR USE: 

Mix 1 tbsp with at least 8 oz of water, juice or your favourite beverage. Stir and drink immediately. If too thick, add more liquid and stir. Drinking an additional glass of water afterwards is advisable to ensure adequate hydration.

CAUTION: This product may cause allergic reaction in people sensitive to inhaled or ingested psyllium.

Q: Nutritionally, what am I getting from psyllium seed husk?

A: For each tablespoon, you get zero calories! What you do get, is 5 grams of gut-loving fibre. Psyllium husks also contain some calcium, iron and protein.

Q: Why do we use the husk?

A: Like in all seeds and grains, the fibre is found in the bran, hull or husk. To get the bulking benefits of the fibre without the starches or other nutrients of the grain or seed, the bran only is used. 

Q: What’s the difference between soluble and insoluble fibre?

A: Soluble fibres attract and bind to water, allowing for bulking of stool. Soluble fibre works like a sponge, collecting up wastes and toxins as it travels through the digestive tract. Insoluble fibre, like found in bran, does not dissolve in water and therefore acts more like a broom, sweeping along and collecting up wastes for removal. Both are important to have daily.

Q: Can I benefit from psyllium if I have diarrhea?

A: Yes, for mild chronic cases for sure. Providing bulk can help to slow down excessive stool speed, allowing more time for you to absorb your nutrients and reabsorb water and electrolytes. Start with a small amount of psyllium and work up gradually.

Q: Can I just take other psyllium supplements like Metamucil?

A: Even though Metamucil contains psyllium, all their various products have some kind of additive, like a sweetener or flavour. The benefit of 100% whole psyllium husk powder like Organika’s is that you can control the flavour, sweetness and uses. You can add it to baking, thicken soups and throw it in a smoothie. Do make sure to have it with enough liquid, and if you are new to lots of fibre in your diet, start with a small amount and work up gradually. Organika’s Whole Psyllium Seed Husks are clean and natural and ready to use!