FullscriptIntegrative Therapeutics
Blue Heron
Label amount: 0.03 g
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Psyllium
Also called: Psyllium husk, ispaghula
A soluble fiber from the husk of plantago seeds. It forms a gel in water that helps keep bowels regular and supports cholesterol and blood sugar.
Supplements can interact with medications and aren't right for everyone, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with a chronic condition. Ask your provider before you start.
Studied for
- Constipation
- Loose stools (it adds bulk)
- Lowering LDL cholesterol
- Blood sugar after meals
- IBS (soluble fiber helps some people)
Found naturally in
- Psyllium seed husks (Plantago ovata)
- Other soluble fiber: oats
- Beans and lentils
- Chia and ground flax
Label red flags
- No third-party testing for lead, which has been found in some psyllium products
- Added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or dyes
Check with a provider
- Taking any medicine, including thyroid medicine. Separate psyllium from medicines and other supplements by at least 2 hours.
- Trouble swallowing, a narrowed esophagus or bowel, or a history of bowel blockage
- Diabetes, or taking medicines that lower blood sugar
- Always take it with plenty of water. Gas and bloating are common at first.
Supplements that contain it
One product in Dr. Lesher's dispensary lists psyllium on the label.
Check with your provider before taking any of these, especially if you're pregnant or take medications.
FullscriptParts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
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Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.