Ingredients: psyllium husks
Psyllium is a plant originating from West Asia which has been used in the folk remedies of India and China for thousands of years.
Psyllium husks are mainly known for their laxative effect that facilitates digestion, which is due to highly water soluble fibers. Its less-known property, which stems from the same reason (its fiber content) is that it can play a role in reducing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, regulating body weight and improving the general sense of well-being. Not only can it improve your digestion, it can also be put to good use in the kitchen as its water-retention features makes it a good thickening and treatment agent.
Significance, effects:
Psyllium husks help prevent constipation. The water-soluble fibers retain water in the intestines as they swell in size, thus increasing the pressure on the intestinal walls, thus urging it to move, while also softening the excreta. Additionally, it can also help mitigate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
The fibers in the psyllium husks are prebiotics, nourishing the beneficial bacteria in the intestines. This heightens the body’s protections as healthy intestinal flora is one of the keystones of an appropriately functioning immune system.
Additionally, fibers can help reduce the body’s cholesterol levels while protecting the veins. They inhibit carbohydrates in raising the blood sugar levels, therefore it’s worth paying close attention to fiber intake in the case of diabetes.
Psyllium husks and fibers can also help weight loss as the fibers swollen from water heighten the sense of fullness. Moreover, it contains a very low level of calories as the fibers are not absorbed in the intestines and do not provide any energy.
It’s noteworthy that psyllium husks (and all foodstuffs with a high fiber content) can only practice their beneficial effects by consuming an appropriate amount of liquids. Otherwise, they will do more harm than good.
In some rare cases, psyllium husks can cause an allergic reaction, along with some unpleasant side effects, such as stomach aches, rapid bowel movements, diarrhea and vomiting.
Use:
Psyllium husks can be used in various ways. They can be dissolved in a glass of liquids or mixed with foodstuffs (creams, stuffed or casserole dishes, soups, vegetable stews, etc.) or even baked in bread or pastries. The integrity of the fibers is not influenced by heat.
Its water retention features make it a superb additive for improving consistency, for example, in thickening fruit or vegetable puree (for example, it can be added to the filling of strudel).
Its dosage depends on various factors, for example, the reason of its consumption. Usually, an amount of 1-3 teaspoons is recommended. It can be used continuously, yet it’s still worth asking for a professional opinion.
Nutritional value (per 100 g):
| Energy: |
130 kJ / 31 Kcal |
| Fat: |
0,75 g |
| - of which saturates: |
0 g |
| Carbohydrate: |
3,5 g |
| - of which sugar: |
0 g |
| Fiber: |
84,5 g |
| Protein: |
2,5 g |
| Salt: |
0,28 g |
Storage: Keep in a cold, dry place!
Country of origin: India
