Isabgol Benefits: The Popular Gel-Like Remedy For Cholesterol, Know Side Effects

Beyond clogged arteries, Isabgol has also been known for centuries in treating many other human ailments, especially to ease constipation and improve digestion. Despite its many health benefits, Isabgol, like any other substance possesses side effects when consumed excessively.

Isabgol Benefits: Blood cholesterol is a waxy fat-like substance that is produced by your liver or by animal-based foods that you consume. Experts suggest that cholesterol is not bad at all, unless you have too much of it.

When your cholesterol is high, it means that you have too much fat in your blood. It is also known as high cholesterol or hyperlipidaemia. When this occurs it clogs your tiny blood vessels and starts interrupting the supply of blood and oxygen into your body.

A person living with high cholesterol is at high risk of developing heart disease and stroke, which is one of the leading causes of death due to clogged arteries.

To manage this medical condition, many people turn to Isabgol, which is a trusted remedy in Ayurveda to lower cholesterol and support heart health. The superfood has also been known for centuries in treating many other human ailments, especially to ease constipation and improve digestion.

Can Isabgol Help Lower Cholesterol?

You may ask how Isabgol may help treat or lower cholesterol. The secret lies in its soluble fibre, and gel-like substance that binds to cholesterol, bile acids and fats. This process prevents bile acids from being reabsorbed, and forces your liver to utilize more cholesterol from the blood to produce new bile acids, thus lowering bad cholesterol levels. Researchers suggest that regular consumption of Isabgol has been shown to lower 'bad' cholesterol without reducing your 'good' cholesterol levels.

"Like other dietary fibre, Psyllium husk is a viscous, mostly water-soluble fibre and has been shown to be an effective supplement in addition to dietary intervention to control blood cholesterol and glucose levels," the National Institute of Health (NIH) claims.

"Psyllium husk fibre has been shown to significantly reduce postprandial serum glucose and insulin concentrations in non-diabetic individuals."

Dosage Of Isabgol To Lower Cholesterol

To reap the benefits of Isabgol, health experts recommend taking a minimum of 5 to 10 g once or twice a day. And the best time to consume Isabgol is before or after your meal. Ensure to drink plenty of water, since the husk may absorb many times its weight. To manage your cholesterol level with the help of Isabgol, it is better to start with smaller amounts, which may help reduce bloating or discomfort, and gradually, you may start noticing changes in a few weeks.

Side Effects Of Isabgol

Despite its many health benefits, Isabgol, like any other substance possesses side effects when consumed excessively. Isabogol, also known as psyllium husk is generally safe for most people, but it can cause side effects especially when taken with less water. Some of the common Isabgol side effects are bloating, gas, stomach cramps, and increased bowel movement. Although severe side effects of Isabgol are seen rarely, they include nausea or vomiting, allergy or choking.

People who are allergic to Isabgol must avoid consuming psyllium. Lastly, pregnant women must consult with their healthcare providers before adding the natural remedy to their lifestyle during the period of pregnancy.

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