Detailed information
| Psyllium has high water binding capacity |
| Psyllium is obtained from the shells or husks of Plantago ovata. The mucilages contained in psyllium seeds, primarily galacturonic acid, xylose, ramnose and arabinose, have a high water-binding capacity. Psyllium can increase its volume by a factor of 10 to 20 by swelling in water. The water-binding capacity of psyllium seed shells is even higher, and they can swell up to 40 times (1). |
| Psyllium for the regulation of intestinal activity |
| The swelling ability of psyllium makes the stool softer and more voluminous. The increase in volume stimulates peristalsis by exerting pressure on the intestinal wall and thus regulates the emptying of the intestines. In the case of diarrhea, transit time is extended by the binding of water – helping to alleviate symptoms. The use of psyllium seeds is considered helpful for habitual constipation, diarrhea and irritable colon (2). Comparative studies have also shown that psyllium seeds have a significantly better effect on irritable colon than wheat bran. Psyllium is therefore superior to bran preparations in therapeutic use as a source of fiber (3). |
| The direct effect of fibers on constipation and hemorrhoids |
| In industrial nations, up to a quarter of the population is affected by chronic constipation. Lack of exercise, low fluid intake and a fiber intake far below the recommended reference values are the main causes of constipation (4). An increase in fiber intake is considered a promising therapeutic measure (5). The increased stool volume and the resulting mechanical stretching stimulates intestinal peristalsis, shortens the transit time of the stool and facilitates bowel emptying. The increased stool volume and the softer consistency are particularly indicated for patients with hemorrhoidal changes and after hemorrhoidectomies. Reduced pain, faster healing and an average shorter postoperative stay in hospital are confirmed by clinical data (6). The activity of dietary fibers is supported by magnesium citrate, which also counteracts constipation (7). |
| Fiber in hypercholesterolemia and diabetes |
| An increase in fiber intake influences the glycemic response. Dietary fibers can lead to a slower increase in blood sugar levels and a more even release of insulin. This can improve glucose tolerance in both healthy people and type 2 diabetics (2). The intake of psyllium in clinical studies led to controlled glucose homeostasis and a more optimized lipid profile (8). The cholesterol-lowering effects of psyllium are attributed to the binding and excretion of bile acids in the intestine. As a result, new bile acids must be synthesized. A cholesterol is required for bile synthesis, this leads to a drop in serum cholesterol levels (9). In addition, dietary fibers bind triglycerides, fatty acids and cholesterol from food and thus help to regulate blood fats (10). This significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease (9). |
| Hunger and appetite control for overweight and obesity |
| Fibers begin to swell in the stomach, increasing the volume and resulting in a long-lasting satiation effect that delays the onset of new feelings of hunger. The modulated release of insulin also leads to lower appetite and hunger signals at the metabolic level. |
| Protective effects in colon and rectal cancer |
| A high dietary fiber intake reduces the risk of malignant tumors of the colon. Faster excretion of potentially carcinogenic noxae reduces their contact with epithelial cells. Increased synthesis of protective short-chain fatty acids by intestinal bacteria, also contributes to the reduction of tumor risk through inhibition of cell proliferation and inducement of apoptosis (2). By strengthening the intestinal flora with the help of pre- and probiotics, a modulated immune response can possibly also prevent the development of cancer in other tissues (11) (12). |