Psyllium health benefits

Psyllium is an excellent dietary source for both soluble and insoluble fibers and has been used in supplemental and food products for its beneficial health effects. The strong water-absorbing and gelling capacities have made it a great challenge to incorporate psyllium in foods at the level needed to claim health benefits on the label. This review is focused on the approaches to improve the functionality. 

C W Kendall, The health benefits of Psyllium , Canadian J Dietetic Practice and Research, 2004 65(3). 

In 1989, psyllium was introduced into processed foods, including General Foods Benefits cereal and Kellogg s Heartwise cereal, with claims for cholesterol-reducing benefits and soluble fiber health benefits. Shortly after introduction, the FDA suggested the products were misbranded drugs due to insufficient evidence to support the labeling claims. Benefits was removed from the market, while Heartwise is still marketed. 

Keep in mind the FDA-approved health claim allowed for prebi-otic fiber in products containing whole oats, barley, psyllium, or wheat. When used regularly over weeks, getting just 0.75 gram (750 milligrams) per serving of prebiotic fiber can reduce blood cholesterol levels and yield numerous potential benefits against cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancer. 

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