How to Eat Psyllium Husks

Psyllium is the seed of the plantain plant. Psyllium seeds contain a fiber called mucilage which absorbs fluid in the digestive tract. This makes the seeds swell, adding bulk to the stool. As the stool becomes bulkier, it presses on the colon wall, triggering the muscle contractions which facilitate the physical urge to defecate. This physical process expedites the body's natural elimination function, making psyllium an effective, natural and nonaddictive laxative.

Things You'll Need

• 1 tablespoon powdered psyllium husk
• 64 to 120 ounces of water or juice

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Instructions

• 1

  Purchase psyllium husks in a grocery store or drug store as the main ingredient in over-the-counter bulk laxatives. Purchase plain psyllium husks without sugar, dyes and flavorings in health food stores.

• 2

  Measure one tablespoon of powdered psyllium husks and stir into a glass of water or juice. The mucilage in plain psyllium powder is thick and gelatinous. Psyllium doesn't have a strong flavor, but because of the texture, it might be more palatable added to juice.

• 3

  Follow with another large glass of water or juice. It is important to drink at least eight to 10 glasses, or 64 to 120 ounces, of fluids daily when taking psyllium. To activate the mucilaginous compounds, psyllium must absorb plenty of water, which in turn will add bulk to the stool, speeding its transit through the intestines.

• 4

  Repeat up to three times daily, always with plenty of water. Psyllium is safe to use for extended periods of time because, as with high-fiber foods, it provides a natural and nonaddictive source of fiber.