Meta Information

ID:psyllium-husk

Name:Psyllium Husk

Schema Version:1.5

Title

Psyllium Husk

Alternate Names

• Ispaghula

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

10

High Cost:

25

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Widely available and inexpensive as a bulk powder.

Summary

Psyllium is a soluble, viscous fiber that forms a gel in the digestive tract. This action slows gastric emptying, which helps blunt post-meal glucose and insulin spikes, and binds to bile acids, which lowers LDL cholesterol. It also acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria that produce health-promoting short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate.

Purpose

A soluble fiber supplement for metabolic health and gut microbiome support.

Card Summary

A soluble fiber that improves glycemic control, lowers cholesterol, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

6.5

Justification:

Robustly improves key metabolic markers like lipids and glucose control.

Evidence

Grade:

A

Score:

9

Justification:

Extensive human RCTs and meta-analyses confirm metabolic and gut health benefits.

Safety

Score:

2.5

Justification:

Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), with main risks being minor gastrointestinal side effects.

Flags

• Must be consumed with sufficient liquid to prevent choking or intestinal blockage.
• Can interfere with the absorption of medications; take at least 2 hours apart from other drugs.
• May cause temporary gas or bloating, especially when first initiating use.

Verdict

A safe, cheap, and effective fiber for foundational metabolic health.

Created

2026-04-24T00:06:10.158830Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

multiple

Scope:

• systemic

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Psyllium is a soluble, viscous fiber that forms a gel in the digestive tract. This action slows gastric emptying, which helps blunt post-meal glucose and insulin spikes, and binds to bile acids, which...

Typical Protocol

• Take 5-10 grams as a powder mixed with at least 8oz of water, once or twice daily before meals.