What is irritable bowel syndrome and why do psyllium husks help?
Unlike the use of chemical tablets or other substances, psyllium husks are expected to have only minimal side effects. They are therefore well tolerated, even by children, when taken in the appropriate dosage.
Causes of irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a dysfunction of the intestines. It affects about twice as many women as men. Typically, no physical cause can be identified for the symptoms. While the cause was previously attributed to a purely psychological component, further research has now revealed that it involves a complex interplay of several factors. Those affected regularly suffer from bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. The symptoms are often accompanied by changes in bowel movements. These can include variations in frequency and consistency.
The exact cause of these symptoms has not yet been fully researched. However, doctors assume that the intestines of those affected are particularly sensitive. The intestine can be divided into several sections, beginning with the duodenum and ending with the rectum. Ingested food passes through these differentiated sections step by step before the actual bowel movement occurs. For the food to move from one section to the next after its completion, further transport is crucial. This is disrupted in people with irritable bowel syndrome. Patients experience the accumulation of air in the form of flatulence and pain more quickly than average.
Other factors include infections, which can lead to the development of irritable bowel syndrome. However, specific emotions such as anxiety, stress, anger, grief, or nervousness are more common. Irritable bowel syndrome is not a mental illness, however. Instead, experts believe it is an interaction of various factors.
Why do psyllium husks help against irritable bowel syndrome?
Psyllium husks and psyllium seeds are officially recognized as natural medicinal products. The husks are somewhat more effective than the seeds because the active ingredients are concentrated in the outer part. Their medicinal effect is due to their ability to swell upon contact with liquids. This is due to certain ingredients: mucilage formed by arabinoxylans and galacturonosidorhamnoses. These represent a form of dietary fiber. Irritable bowel syndrome is usually characterized by regular diarrhea. As a result, the body is unable to utilize all the nutrients from the food consumed.
In cases of severe diarrhea, this can potentially lead to nutritional deficiencies in the long term. Psyllium husks swell to several times their size. This allows them to thicken the intestinal contents. (Note: Psyllium husks also help with constipation—fluid intake makes all the difference.) The food stays in the intestines longer, allowing for better absorption of nutrients. Psyllium is also low in calories, so it can be incorporated into your diet without any disadvantages.
The dosage depends on the individual symptoms.