Isabgol- The Colon cleanser
Isabgol (psyllium husks) a natural vegetable product in highly purified form is nature’s highest soluble fibre obtained from plantago ovata (Isabgol) seeds.It is a naturally healthy fibre and is not absorbed in the intestine. It has no known interaction with other drugs, and does not interfere with the absorption of vitamin and minerals.
- This product is mainly used as a bowel regulator.Isabgol absorbs water and swells up to give increased bulk in the intestine. The fiber present in Isabgol is soluble in nature. This fiber is different from the other type of fibers such as wheat bran and cellulose, which are insoluble.
- Isabgol is recommended for relief of problems associated with chronic constipation such as piles, fissures and fistulas. Isabgol helps to moisten the hard stools and brings down the burning sensation after defecation. It helps to reduce strain during defecation in persons suffering from cardio vascular diseases, hernia and pregnancy.
- It also increases the moisture content of the stools. This promotes the normal peristaltic movements and the bowel mobility.The fiber present in Isabgol helps to control the blood cholesterol levels.
- Isabgol also helps to prevent heart attacks by regulating the serum cholesterol. Isabgol forms a thin layer on the intestines and prevents the absorption of cholesterol in to the arteries. Thus the cholesterol levels in the body is maintained.
- It also helps to regulate the blood glucose levels and insulin response by decreasing the absorption of fats and glucose.
- Isabgol also helps to clean the gastro intestinal tract by removing the toxins present there along with the bulk. Thus the toxins are excreted from the body. Isabgol also helps to prevent indigestion, and flatulence. It removes any material, which may cause intestinal obstruction.
- Isabgol helps to prevent lethargy and gives a feeling of well being and good health.
- Isabgol forms a bulk on swelling, it is classified as a bulk-laxative. It is usually effective within 8-12 hours.
Isabgol should be stirred in a full glass of fluid such as water or juice, just before ingestion. Failure to consume sufficient fluid with a bulk laxative decreases its efficacy. Intake of the husk without fluids should be strictly avoided. - Consumed with water prior to meals, reduces consumption of fat and calories.
Recommended to supplement fibre deficient diet may be used 5 to 10 grams daily with a glass of water , syrup, milk, fruit-juice, salted curd or lassi. The Dosage can go up to three times a day as per individual requirements and One teaspoon daily at bedtime is also advised.
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This post was written by:
Sanjana - Dietitian - who has written 311 posts on Nutrihealth – Your Daily Diet Gyaan.
A dietitian from Mangalore, India. A post graduate diploma holder in “Dietetics” and a university topper from Welcomgroup School of Hotel Administration from the prestigious Manipal University. At present working as a Dietitian for the Manipal Group of Hospitals namely KMC hospital Mangalore, India. Consultant for corporates like Infosys and others, conducting talks and presentations for various associations and local television shows.
41 Responses to “Isabgol- The Colon cleanser”
Feel free to drop in your comments, I would love to hear from you :)
Good article! I was actually searching for something like this! I had a few queries to ask.
1) Can patients suffering from gastritis take isabgol?
2) Is it ok if we can get the Isabgol in the natural form other than buying products from other company?
3) Can people having stomach disorders consume Isabgol?
Thanks in advance .
[Reply]
Thanks michelle for the queries..
1) There is no restriction of fiber in gastritis but however Isabgol should not be used if the person has vomiting, fever and abdominal pain. This product should not be taken along with any other medication, as the desired effects of the medication will be reduced.
2) Isabgol can be taken in any forms even from a company or natural form.The companies cannot alter much other than add any flavors and they have to retain the fibre content. In the natural form the taste is bland while company products are flavored.
The choice is yours but I personally prefer natural form of isabgol.
3) It depends on what stomach disorders you are talking about as some of them they are treated with low fiber diet and some with high fiber diets.
Isabgol is in the lime light as it has soluble fiber and is not made of harsh fiber which remains undigested like cellulose which can cause flatulence and discomfort for some people.
[Reply]
I have a chronic stomach problem since almost a month. When i try to eat healthy food such as breads and fruits, I get constipation. I have to strain a lot in the toilet. Before, I used to have a perfect bowel movement, once in morning and once in evening sometimes. But now, I have to pay numerous visits to the washroom and the stool isn’t the same either. I tried changing my diet, but none of it seems to work. I am really concerned since I am an athlete and I can’t seem to digest my food properly. I get cycles of constipation and diarrohea.
I have tried isabgol but it doesn’t work. Perhaps I am taking wrong dosage. Can you prescribe your dosage in my case and other possible suggestions.
Thanks
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
December 26th, 2008 at 11:16 pm
Hi sanjam,
Please specify your age, your height & weight. Also please let me know about your eating habits, So i can diagnose your ailment correctly.
[Reply]
Hi Sanjana,
I have been experiencing frequent foul discharge of gases. I visited the doctor he did a stool test and he said test it is normal and advised me to take Isabgol daily 1 teaspoon and since last 3-4 weeks i have been on that but still no relief from my problem so i started taking Kayam churan which helps to certain extent i was also taking one teaspoon followed with a glass of water should i take more number of times .
what is your advise I am 42 years old and 83 kgs weight.
Thanks In advance
RK
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
March 9th, 2009 at 9:52 am
A gas problem indicates indigestion. In fact taking more fiber ie isabgol wont help infact will worsen it as fiber traps gas and if taken in excess can aggravate the problem. Hence look into your diet more closely, observe the symptoms. Usually carbohydrates like pulses and legumes if taken more than necessary can cause a problem. There are many who cannot digest protein and this gives us symptoms of indigestion. Cut down on pulses, cabbage, cauliflower etc for some time. Drink enough water and exercise regularly.
[Reply]
Hi Sanjana!
I am very much curious about this isabgol. can i also use this as a dietary supplement? because now im using green tea supplement, but i think my craving doesn’t work at all. kindly advice me regarding this one. By the way, i am 24 yrs of age, with 63 kilos. i just want to lose my weight trying or using this isabgol.
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
March 10th, 2009 at 1:09 pm
isabgol is just fiber…It is not a supplement. Take a teaspoon in water before food. It will reduce hunger pangs. But do not go over board with it. Do not take more than ten grams
[Reply]
is it recommended to take isabgol in the evening or the best time is night ? Please suggest.what a persone will do if has to go to wash room for several times, still his stool is not clear.
anxiously waiting for your reply!
Thanking you, karabi
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
March 25th, 2009 at 11:47 am
The best time to take isabgol is at night before going to bed. It clears the intestine well and adds bulk to the stool. Drink enough fluids about 1.5-2 liters per day. This will help to clear the system too along with isabgol.
[Reply]
karabi Reply:
May 4th, 2009 at 1:30 pm
thanks for the comments.
[Reply]
hi sanjana my age is 20 and weight is 61kg i want to reduce my fats can i take isabgol plz tel me advance thnxx
[Reply]
Hi mahi,
Isabgol is not a miracle drug which will suck out fat from the body.You have to be on a low calorie diet and very importantly, exercise regularly.
Yes, you can take isabgol before meals. But this does not mean you can eat as much as calories as you want. You will need to stick to the prescribed calorie intake and exercise consistently.
[Reply]
Hi Sanjana,
Very nice article.
Earlier, my stomach does not clean well. I used Isabgol and it helped to clean my stomach well. Can eating Isabgol daily will have any side effects?
Please advise…
Regards,
Manoj
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
July 15th, 2009 at 9:42 am
It does not have any side effect. Do not take more than 1 heaped teaspoon per day. Excess can pull out minerals from your body and may cause loose motions. So do not go overboard with the Isabgol intake.
[Reply]
Hello Sanjana
I am suffering from indigestion for past 4 days and Whatever I eat doesnot stay in my stomach thus making me weak and Lethargic. My age is 26 and My weight is just 50 KG. Do you think proper dosage of Isabagol will help me in rectifying in my stomach problems and at the same time revive my physique.
Plzzzz help
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
August 8th, 2009 at 9:32 am
I do not recommend isabgol at the time of indigestion as it can aggravate the condition. Preferably try to eat on time and take plenty of fluids.
[Reply]
Risav Bose Reply:
August 12th, 2009 at 6:21 pm
Thank you for the reply Sanjana
[Reply]
Thank you for replying Sanjana.
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Hi Sanjana,
Great article! Just wanted to know which Isabgol product you recommend?
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
August 14th, 2009 at 10:42 am
Dr. morepans isabgol is good but the taste is bland. You can also go for the product marketed by VLCC as it tastes better and it comes in flavours…
[Reply]
To:-
Sanjana, Dietician.
I am 84 with fairly good habits,like doing yoga ,walking, choosy in diet,no over eating etc.
Before going to bed at night ,daily I take one and a half spoon of Isabgol in water and only then I go to bed. Should I have the isabgol before night food or after, when going to bed as I am doing at present.
Awaiting your valued advice.
T.S.Sundaram.
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
October 12th, 2009 at 10:47 am
Isabgol is advised to be had after food before going to bed and also with a lot of water. Take it as you are doing now. It is quite helpful. But it is quite appreciative that you as an octogenarian is taking very good care of one self.
Keep the spirits high for good health…
[Reply]
my age is 39 years with weight 86 kg. i am doing regular exercise in health club from last 45 days. I hv lost around 7 kg weight in last 45 days. Is I am loosing weight very fast or loosing 7 kg in 45 days is ok? I aim to further loose 10 kg more weight in next 3 months. Is it ok? can you please provide me a list of daily food diet chart to keep the calories intake low and to reduce fat. Thanks for your time.
[Reply]
hello! is it useful to take isbagol with curd to reduce weight / fat?
[Reply]
Hi, I am mother of a 3 months old baby and suffering from constipation. My problem is hard stools. I have been using isbagol husk regularly morning evening but my stool is still hard. How can I make it soft? I used 2 tbsp after breakfast and then 2 tbsp at night. After taking it, I go twice to bathroom but no avail. I drink a lot of water approx 3 litres, eat 3-4- pieces of fruit everyday. Please help me I am 32 yrs old, my weight is 64 kg (baby fat). Please suggest me a dosage which can make my stool soft. Thanks Regards
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
November 2nd, 2009 at 10:09 am
Hi Ritu,
Congrats on becoming mother…First and foremost, there are a lot of physical pressures on your body. Any changes in food, sleep can cause this problem. Isabgol should be taken preferably at night with atleast 500ml of water. The water requirements on your body is very high as you may be exclusively breast feeding,so you need to drink enough of water. Next check whether you are eating enough of fiber through food. Eat whole grains such as brown rice, dalia or broken wheat, oats, bajra, ragi etc depending on which region you are from. Eat enough of fruits and vegetables for high fiber content and eat on time. Sleep may be a forgotten entity now, but try to nap with the baby.
If you keep breast feeding uptil a year, you will lose the baby fat
[Reply]
dear madam,
i m having constipation problem from more than a decade, i use to drink one bottle of water in the morning, then tea then cigarette then also i never had satisfactory result and i used kayam churan but from last one year i hv left cigarette n alcohol and now from past one month i m having isabgol, if i take one spoon heap of isabgol it never effects so i take 3 heaped table spoon then i get the result that to in the morning i hv to work hard , like drink one bottle of water n then walk n stretch for fifteen minutes and then big cup of tea and then again stretch before going to the loo and then i feel that i need to go to the toilet. it takes almost one and half hour to two hours, lot of time is wasted in this process and if i need to go to the toilet early my lot of time is saved, so is there any possibily, or any suggestions,when i take isabgol with warm milk or water gives better result but still takes time in the morning. i shall be very grateful if you could help me out with this.
[Reply]
i am 41 years old weight is 85 kgs and height is 5,11.
[Reply]
Hi,
I am Bharani, Male, Age:28yrs, Height:165cm, Weight:62kgs. Recently, i have a problem of anal fissures. Docs have suggested me to have 3-5 gms of isabgol(husk powder) for 2 times a day. Could you plz let me know when will be the good time to have this(morning/evening or before/after having food). Is it harmful if i double the dosage of isabgol (i want to get rid of this fissure as soon as possible, as it’s very painful) and one more thing that presntly i am in UK and its now freezing, so plz tell the approx amount of isbagol to be taken, while considering the climatic condiitons over here?
Thanks in advance.
Bharani
[Reply]
Its an Excellant Article and discussion too.
It inceased my knowledge a lot. Now i ve planned to take ispagol daily in night before going to bed with water.
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
February 3rd, 2010 at 4:52 pm
great going Fawwaz….
[Reply]
Hi Sanjana,
Thanks for the Wonderful article. I have a question. Does isabgol help IBS patients..or does it make worse?. Thanks in advance.
-Arun
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
March 2nd, 2010 at 4:36 pm
Hi Arun,
you can take isabgol for IBS especially for symptoms on constipation….
[Reply]
Hi Dr. Sanjana,
I m 35 years of age. I m a regular at gym and have whey proteins pre and post workouts (1 scoop each time). off lately i have noticed that i need to pass gas quite a few times. I weigh 87 kg at 6′ with 6 kg of excess fat as per gym’s scan.
Is this because of Whey ?
Would isabgol help me ?
what the ideal quantity of whey i should have pre and post workouts ?
also if whey proteins are useful at all ?
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
March 4th, 2010 at 12:28 am
Hi Mathew,
I suggest you have whey protien after exercise. It is advised to have carbs before exercise and whey protein after exercise for muscle development and repair. take about a scoop post exercise. whey is useful.
Isabgol wont help you as it can aggravate the condition.
Please elaborate more on the scan done at the gym….
[Reply]
Mathew Reply:
March 4th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
Hi Dr. Sanjana
Thank you for your prompt response !
Well its one of those machines which give out a body composition readouts. I m not sure what technology it uses but it gives out a complete A4 size printouts; If you want I can have a copy mailed to you . Can you suggest something for the excess gas while having Whey. Although I have noticed that the occurrence is reducing regularly; would it be that my body just needed to get used to it ?
[Reply]
Dear Dr.Sanjana.
very nice and informative posting..thanks for sharing knowledge.I am in a circumstances where i am seeking your suggestions before that i would like to share my history.
i had pain in passing stool 3 years back it was first time experience in my life..it was also passing blood along with stool. i consult a doctor they reported it as anal fissure provided me some tablets and tubes to insert at anus..after few days pain disappeared. later after again six months had same problem again visited doctor and he again provided me tablets,syrups and tubes reported anal fissure..later on December 2008 i had huge pain in my abdomen did sonography and came to know its gallbladder stone later i had to remove my gall bladder with doctors suggestion the mean time during operation doctors found i have appendix also so they removed my appendix same time. after finished with operation again after 2 months its started bleeding and pain in anus..again took medicines and tubes. later again after few months i had this pain with blood..i showed it to gastroenterologist he reported hemorrhoids this time by doing my endoscopy..and again provide me some pills and tubes and few syrup which was to soften stool. was ok after the treatment..later again it started same problem…and i am still having this problem..i m tired of this recurrent pain i am having this since last 3 years now . it last for few months and after treatment it get ok and then again same like before…i am 29 year old male having weight of 82 kgs..hight 5.11″ ..at present i think the pain is not deep inside anus but its surrounding..i m not able to confirm wither i am constipated or not..to certain extend i am constipated..and feel due to hard stool passing some times its started paining..i am not taking any kind of pills right now..only using tubes and hot water massage…in such circumstances i m seeking your reply to guide me through taking isabgol advisable for me? ..how much dosage i should start with?…its paining sometimes please advise..thanks.
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
March 14th, 2010 at 9:35 pm
Hi Rehan,
Firstly lose some weight. Exercise will help you to tone up your anal muscles and help to pass stool daily. Isabgol can help you alot. Start with one teaspoon a day in warm water and then slowly increase the dosage to 2-3 tsps per day. Preferably take it at night as it helps you to pass stool easily the next day. Drink atleast 2 liters of water per day and add an extra half liter for every half hour of exercise.
[Reply]
Rehan Reply:
March 15th, 2010 at 6:51 pm
Dear Dr.Sanjana,
Thanks for your kind reply.i personaly feel that my body is lethargic what to do my work is like computer programming..i suppose to sit on chair atleast 8 to 10 hrs a day and 3 to 4 hurs contineously..could you please suggest me exercise i should start with?..thanks again
[Reply]
Sanjana - Dietitian Reply:
March 16th, 2010 at 2:11 pm
Hi Rehan,
Swimming, rock climbing, cycling, gymming etc…You can start and do anything. Remember to enjoy and still burn calories….