How to Use Isabgol for Constipation Relief: A Complete Guide
Use of Isabgol in the treatment of constipation: Complete guide constipation - a common problem for millions.
Are you one of them, and you are having problems with the irregular and difficult bowel movements?
You certainly know the natural remedy - Isabgol, also known as psyllium husk. Isabgol is an effective treatment for constipation. There are numerous health benefits of this natural product.
In this article, we will discuss how to use Isabgol for constipation, benefits, side effects, and ways of introducing it into your daily regime.
What is Isabgol?
Isabgol, another term for psyllium husk, is derived from the seeds of the plant Plantago ovata.
Psyllium husk is a natural soluble fiber that has been utilised for centuries in traditional medicine systems, especially in Indian practice, to treat digestive disorders like constipation.
If mixed with water, Isabgol forms a gel-like substance that creates bulkiness to the stool, thus helping it to pass easily through the intestines. This bulking action creates the scientific efficacy of Isabgol for constipation.
How does Isabgol Work for Constipation?
Isabgol is a lotus seed husk that swells on absorbing water in the intestines and takes the form of a jelly-like substance.
This jelly adds bulk to stool, which allows it to pass more easily through the intestines. The added bulk will stimulate the bowel movements, and you can find relief from constipation.
It serves as a natural laxative that does not cause dependency, nor does it cause irritation to be taken long-term.
How to Take Isabgol for Constipation Relief
1. Isabgol with Warm Water
The most common and effective method in the use of Isabgol for constipation is through mixing it with warm water. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Take 2 teaspoons of Isabgol
• Mix the Isabgol into a glass of warm water.
• Stir well until it becomes a uniform mixture.
• Drink at once, followed by another glass of water.
It makes it work effectively when taken with lukewarm water as this relaxes the intestines, making it easier for the stool to pass.
2. Isabgol with Milk
You may not be able to gulp down Isabgol just with plain water. Well, you can try out mixing Isabgol with milk. Here is how you do that:
• Warm a glass of milk.
• Add in 1-2 teaspoons of Isabgol.
• Take the mixture well before sleeping
You can have Isabgol with milk to wake up in the morning with a smooth bowel movement. This is really helpful especially if you are one of those people who are accustomed to a more palatable option.
3. Isabgol with Curd (Yogurt)
• To give you a little boost of probiotic, you can have Isabgol with curd:
• Add in 1 teaspoon of Isabgol to a bowl of plain curd.
• Use it after having meals in order to ease the digestive system and relieve bowel movements.
The combination of Isabgol with curd is very beneficial in balancing the gut flora which eventually uplifts digestion and eases constipation
4. Isabgol with Lemon Water
For that refreshing version, try isabgol with lemon water:
• Mix half a lemon's juice in a warm glass of water
• Add 1 teaspoon of Isabgol
• Stir well and serve immediately.
Lemon adds a refreshing zest to it with health-promoting digestive benefits, but it is excellent for making the effects of Isabgol for relief of constipation work better.
Health Benefits of Isabgol
More than curing constipation, Isabgol is a powerhouse of health benefits.
1. Improves Regular Bowel Movements
The main advantage of Isabgol psyllium husk is that it helps promote regular, healthy bowel movements.
It can form a gel, which bulks up stools for easy passage and can prevent chronic constipation. This can be an aid for the total health of the gut.
2. Aids in Weight Loss
Helps in Weight Loss: If you are desirous of shedding a few pounds, then Isabgol can do the trick. Being a soluble fiber, it expands within the stomach and thus provides a feeling of fullness.
This helps reduce your intake as it curbs your appetite and reduces between-meal snacking.
3. Helps regulate Blood Sugar Levels
Psyllium husk has a specific use for people with diabetes. It impedes carbohydrate absorption and therefore regulates the blood sugar levels.
If you happen to be managing diabetes, incorporating Isabgol into your daily diet would balance out your glucose levels.
4. Heart Health
It helps reduce cholesterol levels since the intestinal flora uses the cholesterol to synthesize more bile acids. This lowers your bad cholesterol (LDL) in your blood, reducing the risk of heart disease.
5. Supports Digestive Health
The benefits of Isabgol in conditions of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are useful because of its bulk-forming property, it regulates bowel and helps ease diarrhea and constipation, hence excellent for people with IBS.
How Often Should You Take the Isabgol ?
To facilitate smooth regular bowel movements and to ease constipation, you may take Isabgol once every day. The dose is as follows:
In Adults : 1 to 2 teaspoons of Isabgol, preferably after meals once or twice a day.
In Children : half to one teaspoon in a day (consult with the doctor for the dosage).
Always drink enough water when taking Isabgol as the fiber needs adequate hydration to work. If a person is not hydrated enough, Isabgol might cause bloating or make the issue worse by hardening the stool.
Possible Side Effects of Isabgol
Despite Isabgol being a natural remedy and beneficial in many ways, it is necessary to be aware of some possible side effects, especially if you do not use it correctly:
1. Bloating and Gas
When initiating with Isabgol, many patients develop bloating or gas initially. This is usual with an increased level of fiber in the diet. Gradually increase the dose and, at the same time take water in plentiful amounts to reduce the adverse effects.
2. Intestinal Obstruction
When you take Isabgol with less water, the thickness of gel may cause obstruction of your intestine. That is why drinking a glass of water right after taking Isabgol is always essential.
3. Allergic Reactions
In very few cases, people may suffer from an allergic reaction to Isabgol. If you are liable to any allergic reactions like fainting, get wheezy or have swelling. Stop using the product and visit a doctor.
4. Interference with Medications
Psyllium husk can reduce the absorption of certain medication. Take your prescribed drugs at least 1-2 hours before or after Isabgol to avoid interaction with it. Please discuss with your doctor if you will take Isabgol in water with medications.
When To Avoid Isabgol
- If you have any digestive blockages or intestinal disorders, it’s important to avoid taking Isabgol as it may worsen these conditions.
- If you’re already consuming a high-fiber diet, adding too much Isabgol may lead to bloating and gas.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before using Isabgol.
- If you are allergic to psyllium, avoid Isabgol.
Isabgol and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
One of the advantages of Isabgol for patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is its dual relief action.
Whether your suffering caused by IBS with diarrhea or constipation Isabgol can relieve you by adding bulk to the stool and absorbing excessive water that is making it difficult to pass and stabilizing irregular bowel movements.
Isabgol and Weight Loss
As a soluble fiber, Isabgol husk slows down the process of digestion. It keeps you feeling full for a long period.
In doing so, this product decreases the tendency to eat or snack too much and therefore helps in weight loss. A practical side, especially when you have to adopt a low-calorie diet or follow a low-carb diet.
How to Choose the Right Isabgol Product
When buying Isabgol, take care to buy only the best brands that are pure, 100% natural, and additive-free. Additive-free pure Isabgol psyllium husk is sold by companies like Aiwo, Dabur, and Patanjali.
Final Thoughts on Using Isabgol for Constipation Relief
To summarize, isabgol is a natural and highly effective remedy for constipation and also facilitates proper gut health in general.
Whatever you take it with-warm water, milk, or curd-the essence is to drink liquids in plenty to make sure it functions well. The benefits of Isabgol are many more than those of helping oneself from constipation.
It acts as a weight loss agent and blood sugar normalizer. A healthy heart is also promoted because the solution aids in bringing cholesterol down. Always be cautious of the side effects arising and seek help from your physician if there are any possible concerns.
If used regularly along with proper hydration, Isabgol may be of use to you in keeping your digestive system-on track bowel movement and overall well-being.
* Medical Disclaimer - The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphic, and images, are intended as substitutes for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice pertaining to your condition(s).
