As medications require doctor trips, prescriptions and can be expensive, people often look for alternatives. We believe that health is a balancing act of meds and lifestyle with diet and exercise. You should make a plan with your doctor and not make large changes without having a discussion. It’s essential to do research. Often, these miracle swaps people rave about online aren’t all they claim to be, and that’s why we take a closer look at them.
Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber that can aid blood sugar and weight loss as it cannot be digested. It absorbs water and forms bulk and can act as a gentle laxative and help treat constipation. It can be taken as a supplement. It can also be used as an ingredient and is an excellent low-carb replacement for cornstarch.
Psyllium husk can feed the good bacteria in the gut, aiding the microbiome. That can boost the immune system, lower inflammation and support heart and cholesterol health.
Knowing what psyllium husk does shows that, no, it is not an alternative to a medication. “If someone is making other changes to their nutritional intake or their exercise routine and they’re using psyllium husk as part of that, it can be supportive of weight management because of the impacts on fullness and blood sugar regulation,” said registered dietitian Jessica Cording. “But just introducing psyllium husk is not enough to cause weight loss.”
Fiber won’t speed up metabolism. But it is a nutrient that supports metabolic health. It can also reduce snacking as fiber makes you feel full longer.
“Fiber helps regulate appetite by increasing satiety,” registered dietitian Caroline Young said. “This makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight, as it helps you avoid overeating.”
Soluble fiber is found naturally in many foods. Apples, beans, carrots, citrus fruits and lentils are excellent sources of soluble fiber. You can get fiber by eating a mix of healthy food. If you worry about gaps in your nutrition, many supplements are available.
Taking psyllium husk as a supplement can cause gas and bloating if your diet is low in fiber. Before starting any supplement, you should always speak to your doctor to be sure it’s right for you. You can take it daily but may need to work up to a full dose. You should also drink lots of water when taking a fiber supplement.
The internet is quick to label things as miracles or cure-alls. The truth is, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. No, psyllium isn’t a natural alternative to medication. However, adding more fiber to your diet can benefit your blood sugar and weight management goals!
