What is the recommended dosage for Psyllium?

General: 5-10g/day (start low at 3g/day and increase gradually); Cholesterol Reduction: 10-12g/day soluble fiber from psyllium; Fda Health Claim Level: 7g/day

What are the side effects of Psyllium?

Potential side effects include: Bloating and gas (especially when starting — resolves with gradual titration), Abdominal cramping, Choking hazard if taken without adequate water, Allergic reactions (rare, in healthcare workers with occupational exposure).

What is psyllium and how may it support cardiovascular health?

Psyllium is a soluble fiber from Plantago ovata that binds bile acids in the intestine, promoting cholesterol excretion. The FDA has authorized a health claim for psyllium and coronary heart disease risk reduction. Meta-analyses show psyllium reduces LDL cholesterol by approximately 7% when combined with a healthy diet.

What dosage of psyllium has been studied for cholesterol reduction?

The FDA-authorized health claim requires at least 7 grams of soluble fiber from psyllium daily (approximately 10.2 grams of psyllium husk). Clinical trials used 5–15 grams of psyllium husk per day, typically divided into doses taken with meals. Consistent daily use for at least 4 weeks is needed for cholesterol effects.

What are the potential side effects of psyllium?

Common side effects include bloating, gas, and abdominal cramping, particularly when starting. Psyllium must be taken with adequate water (at least 240 mL) to prevent choking or bowel obstruction. It may reduce absorption of medications including statins, thyroid hormones, and digoxin; take medications 1–2 hours apart from psyllium.

Psyllium

fiber

Also known as: Psyllium Husk, Ispaghula, Metamucil, Plantago ovata

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About

Psyllium is a soluble gel-forming fiber with an FDA-approved health claim for cholesterol reduction. A 2018 meta-analysis of 28 RCTs found psyllium at 10g/day reduced LDL cholesterol by 12.5 mg/dL. The AHA/ACC endorse psyllium as part of therapeutic lifestyle changes for hypercholesterolemia.

How It Works

Soluble gel-forming fiber that binds bile acids in the intestinal lumen, forcing the liver to use circulating cholesterol to synthesize new bile acids, thereby reducing LDL cholesterol; forms a viscous gel slowing glucose absorption and reducing postprandial insulin spikes; promotes beneficial gut bacteria fermentation producing short-chain fatty acids.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)	A	28	2000	View →

Side Effects

Bloating and gas (especially when starting — resolves with gradual titration)
Abdominal cramping
Choking hazard if taken without adequate water
Allergic reactions (rare, in healthcare workers with occupational exposure)

Drug & Supplement Interactions

All oral medications (may reduce absorption — take medications 1-2 hours before psyllium)
Diabetes medications (additive blood sugar lowering effect)
Lithium (may reduce absorption)
Carbamazepine (may reduce absorption)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Beta-Glucan Chitosan Plant Sterols/Stanols

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 5-10g/day (start low at 3g/day and increase gradually); Cholesterol_Reduction: 10-12g/day soluble fiber from psyllium; Fda_Health_Claim_Level: 7g/day
Forms: powder capsule wafer husk
Natural Sources: Psyllium seed husks (Plantago ovata)
Upper Limit: Not formally established; gradual titration to avoid GI discomfort
Best Time: With meals (before or during) with at least 240 mL (8 oz) water per dose

Evidence Summary

High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia) A

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.