What is Isabgol and why you must start adding it in your food NOW

Isabgol also known as Psyllium husk is derived from the seeds of the plant Plantago ovata. It has its roots in the Sanskrit words “asp” and “ghol,” together meaning "horse flower". The plant has long and narrow leaves and contains around 70% soluble fibre and 30% insoluble fiber. It is a herb that is native to Asia, the Mediterranean region and North Africa. Known as a common remedy for effective weight loss and clearing out the toxins from the digestive tract, isabgol has a myriad list of health benefits to offer.

Isabgol is a good remedy that has been used as a laxative since ages to relieve constipation. The insoluble fiber present in Isabgol causes the stool to soften and expand, thereby improving gut movement. Add two teaspoons of Isabgol in a glass of warm milk and consume it before you go to bed every night for a few weeks.

According to various health experts, hygroscopic properties of Isabgol help in reducing cholesterol from blood. It forms a thin layer in the intestines that prevents the absorption of cholesterol from food and efficiently helps in lowering cholesterol.

Isabgol helps you feel full for a long duration, thereby curbing those unwanted food cravings. Consuming Isabgol powder mixed with water and lemon juice helps in aiding in weight loss when consumed on an empty stomach in the morning.

When consumed with curd, isabgol works as an effective remedy in relieving the symptoms of loose stools. The fibers in Isabgol helps in hardening the stools that works well when you suffer from diarrhea.

Packed with both soluble and insoluble fibres, Isabgol helps in regularizing bowel movement by clearing the passage for the movement of food through the intestines in your stomach. You can take 2 teaspoons of Isabgol in a glass of buttermilk and consume it before going to bed.

Isabgol is great for diabetics as it contains gelatin that slows the breakdown and absorption of glucose into the body. It thus helps in controlling the amount of blood sugar in the body.

In case you are suffering from acidity, Isabgol comes to the rescue. It protects stomach lining from acidity by forming a layer.

According to various researches, one can consume 10-20 grams of Isabgol per day with 8 ounces of water to lower cholesterol. 20 grams of Isabgol every day also helps in preventing constipation.

The best time to consume Isabgol for weight loss is on an empty stomach in the morning or at night before going to bed.

- Mix Isabgol in milk, honey, juice or smoothie.

- Mix Isabgol in your curd.

- It can be taken with warm water.