Isabgol For Weight Loss: How Isabgol (psyllium husk) can help you lose weight and things to consider while using it (2024)

From trying different workout regimes to fiddling with multiple diets that drain you out completely, what did you not try to lose weight! Even though losing weight in itself isn’t as challenging and can be achieved easily, it is the sacrifice of our favourite food items that takes the fun out of ‘dieting’. Switching to healthier options like brown rice, vegetable juices and brown sugar is one thing but eating tasteless alternatives helps weight loss a great deal but is tough on the taste buds. Balancing everything at once is a herculean task and difficult to achieve, therefore we bring to you one not so rare ingredient that you have known all along but probably didn’t know how effective it can be in aiding weight loss. Here is Psyllium Husk and how it can help you achieve your target weight.

Before jumping right to its weight loss aiding properties, let us introduce you to the ingredient properly. Psyllium Husk, also known as Isabgol is a soluble fibre which is derived from the husks of Plantago Ovata’s plants seeds. It is a commonly used laxative and helps cure constipation. But in addition to that, it is also beneficial for your pancreas, heart and gut. The husk is available mostly in the form of husk granules, powder or capsules and is utilized as a dietary supplement by people around the world.

It is very absorbent and absorbs water to turn it into a thick, viscous compound that helps resist digestion. It thus helps in regulating blood glucose levels, high cholesterol and tri-glycerides.

Fibre-Psyllium husk is rich in both insoluble as well as soluble fibre, which makes it a healthy option for consumption as fibre enables smooth bowel movement and makes us feel full for longer periods of time by absorbing water and settling a layer in our stomach that gives us a feeling of fullness for longer periods of time.

Cleanses the Colon- A clean colon means good gastrointestinal health and Psyllium Husk increases endurance and also helps the body fight diseases. It also provides stamina, boosts the immune system and helps greatly in weight loss.

Calories- Since it contains less calories, it automatically becomes a healthier option for weight loss as achieving a calorie deficit becomes easier with foods with low calorie count.

Reduces Hunger- Psyllium husk when consumed with water increases in size up to ten times and helps one feel fuller for longer periods of time.

Fight Body Bulge- It improves the digestive system, strengthens immunity and helps cleanse the colon thereby aiding in building a resistance to fat gain, helping in burning fat and losing weight.

Adults can take psyllium husk once or twice a day depending on their health condition. The powder should be mixed into a glass of water or fruit juice before swallowing. It is best if you take your doses just after a meal. If you are suffering from any chronic health condition or are pregnant consult your doctor before having psyllium husk.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for physician's advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details.