Now Whole Psyllium Husks - 454g

What is Psyllium?

Psyllium seed is a grain grown in India that is prized for its high fibre content. Psyllium works as a bulk-forming laxative containing 10-30% mucilage. In the intestine psyllium swells and forms a gelatinous mass which keeps the feces soft and hydrated, promoting regular bowel movements. Psyllium is a good intestinal cleanser and stool softener. Heath practitioners will often recommend psyllium for intestinal conditions such as colitis, constipation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, bladder problems, rheumatism and ulcers.

Why Take Fiber?
Medical research has conclusively shown the benefits of high fiber diets. Fiber is the indigestible parts of fruits, seeds, vegetables, whole grains and other edible plants. Fiber is generally classified as either soluble or insoluble.

Soluble fiber is that which easily dissolves in water. Fruit pectin is an example of soluble fiber. Soluble fibers lead to the production of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which support the nourishment of the cells of the large intestine and promote digestive. SCFAs also help maintain cholesterol levels that are already within the normal range.

Insoluble fiber is not easily dissolved in water. Wheat bran is an insoluble fiber. Insoluble fibers contain roughage which helps tone the bowel.* Research has also shown that insoluble fiber may play a role in reducing intestinal permeability.

Benefits of a high fiber diet may include:
-Helps maintain cholesterol levels already within the normal range
-Supports healthy blood sugar levels when used as part of the diet
-Improve bowel function
-Feed intestinal bacteria
-Decrease intestinal permeability

Intestinal Health

The intestine is the main absorptive area of the digestive tract. It is essentially a tube with a thin mucosal lining and lots of blood vessels on the inside and muscles around the outside. It has its own immune tissue called GALT, or gut associated lymphoid tissue. The inner lining is filled with little fingers, or projection of the mucosa, which greatly increases its absorptive surface.

Lying on the membrane are many friendly organisms, which help our body with the digestive process. The small intestine attaches to the stomach. Near it's beginning, ducts from the liver and pancreas release digestive juices. These juices mix with the partially digested food from the stomach and continue the digestive process. Nutrients are absorbed through the thin intestinal wall and transported via the bloodstream, to where they are needed. The liver also excretes processed toxins and fats through the bile. These substances must be carried through the intestine without being absorbed.

The remainder of the food is pushed through into the large intestine. The main function of the large intestine is the preparation of stool for excretion. In order to do this the digested food must be dehydrated and compacted. The last bit of nutrients may also be absorbed here.

Some of the most important players in intestinal health are not part of our own body. Friendly intestinal bacteria, often called probiotics, are an essential part of digestion. They break down food particles, manufacture vitamins and prevent the infection of the tract with other microbes. Each bowel movement actually contains millions of these friendly bacteria; they are in a constant state of renewal. Many concerns likeindigestion, gas, bloating andconstipationcan be due to an imbalance of the intestinal bacteria. It is easy to upset this balance by improper diet or taking medications like antibiotics.