Psyllium

Psyllium, Plantago psyllium, Psyllium fiber

The Psyllium fiber is named after the seeds of the plant Plantago psyllium, it is very commonly used to treat constipation. This kind of fiber is water soluble and is the only one that is ferment resistant within the intestine, which gives its laxative properties (increases fecal weight and moisture). Beyond that, psyllium appears to be effective in reducing blood cholesterol and LDL, levels of blood glucose and also appetite.

Nutraceutic

  • Origin Plant Based
  • Source Itself
  • Type Prebiotic

Cardiovascular Health

The cardiovascular system is responsible for blood circulation, which has the function of transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. It consists of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiovascular diseases are caused by changes in the blood lipid profile, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure, genetic predisposition, overweight, stress, and others. The compounds that help cardiovascular health are those that normalize risk factors, such as cholesterol.

  • Cholesterol & Triglycerides

    Triglycerides and cholesterol are both types of fat present in blood. They play very important roles in the body, such as hormone metabolism and nutrient circulation. In order for them to function properly, they need to be at optimum levels - not too high neither too low. The primary way to keep those good levels is to have a healthy diet, with lots of fiber and balanced fats. But there are some nutraceutics that have been proven to help in this process in a very effective way.

Immunity

The immune system is made up of cells, tissues and organs that act in the organism's defense against the harmful effects of external microorganisms. The supplements indicated for immunity act as strengthening agents of this system, increasing the antibodies production and, consequently, its defense activity.

  • Nutrient Supplementation

    The absorption and different uses for each nutrient is highly linked to the body's immune system, which is the set of chemical reactions that protect us from any "intruder" and susteins our vital functions. All the vitamins and minerals are essencial for the whole functioning of this system.

Weight Management

Total body weight takes into account all body elements, such as organs, muscles, bones, fluids, fat, etc. The weight loss process depends on a negative energy balance (spending more calories than the ones consumed), but there are substances that can help the body to increase this deficit. Among them, there are thermogenics, fibers, appetite suppressants, fat absorption blockers and some others.

  • Appetite Control

    Appetite include physical hunger, subjective appetite (desire to eat) and satiety. These aspects are controlled and regulated by hormones (leptin, ghrelin, serotonin, etc.) that act in the gastrointestinal tract and in the brain through negative feedback. In addition to hormones, appetite is also influenced by metabolic factors, hydration, blood glucose, intestinal motility, among others. The compounds that influence appetite are those that regulate the hormones involved, assist in satiety, benefit the gastrointestinal tract, improve blood glucose, among others.

Blood Sugar

Blood sugar (or glucose) is the main sugar found in the blood. It comes from the food you eat, and is the body's main source of energy. The bloodstream carries glucose (with the help of a hormone called Insulin) to all of the cells of the body in order for them to live. There is a range of healthy glucose/insulin levels, if they get too high or too low the body responds quickly with unpleasant symptoms. And if those levels stay out of range you might develop chronic conditions like Type 2 Diabetes and others. That's why taking care of blood sugar levels is so important.

  • Blood Sugar control

    The body's cells use glucose to produce energy. Glucose comes from food and is stored in the body in the form of glycogen (in the muscles and liver) or circulating glucose (in the blood). Cells need the hormone Insulin to capture glucose molecules. The glucose / insulin balance in the blood is essential for the proper functioning of the body's whole metabolism. A change in this metabolism can lead to serious physiological dysfunctions, leading to the development of chronic non-communicable diseases, such as type II diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. There are several classes of compounds that influence this metabolism, these can increase insulin synthesis and secretion, decrease blood glucose levels, reduce the immediate absorption of carbohydrates, regulate the sensitivity of cells to insulin, among others.
  • Age Range Children (0-12), Teenagers (13-19), Adults (20-59), Seniors (>60)
  • Toxicity There is no evidence of toxicity until now
  • Side effects Nausea, Diarrhea, Bloating, Gas
  • Warnings Diebetes Medication, Intestinal Problems, Allergies, Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders.

Why be Careful

Psyllium can lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes by slowing down absorption of sugars from foods. Monitor blood glucose levels closely is important. Doses of diabetes madications may need to be adjusted. / People who have esophageal problems or trouble swallowing might be more likely to choke on psyllium if taken as powder.

References

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