If you or anyone in your family suffers from chronic constipation, you’ve likely heard of Isabgol. Also known as Psyllium husk, Isabgol is a dietary fibre and soluble ingredient used as a natural remedy for digestive issues. But do you know Isabgol also works as a cooling agent and aids weight loss? Yes, you read that right, Isabgol works as an excellent ingredient if you want to lose those extra pounds.

Isabgol for weight loss

Isabgol, when it mixes with water, swells up and forms a gel-like substance in your stomach. This helps slow down digestion and makes you feel fuller for longer. So if you’re someone who’s constantly hungry or finds it hard to control portions, having a spoonful of Isabgol before your meals could actually help you cut down on unnecessary snacking. A meta-analysis of six clinical trials found that taking around 10.8 grams of Isabgol daily before meals helped people reduce their body weight, BMI, and waist circumference significantly.

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You might not think of fibre as something that helps you beat the heat, but hear me out. Because Isabgol absorbs water and expands, it helps keep your digestive system hydrated and functioning smoothly. When mixed into a glass of water, it can soothe the gut and help prevent heat-induced acidity and indigestion. Its mild anti-inflammatory properties also play a role in calming the digestive tract, which can feel extra sensitive during peak summer temperatures. 

Who should consume Isabgol and who shouldn’t?

Isabgol isn’t for everyone. It’s important to know who should be using it and who should probably give it a pass. If you’re someone trying to lose weight naturally, struggling with constipation, or looking to manage your cholesterol or blood sugar levels, Isabgol could be a great addition to your routine. It’s even been found to help reduce bad cholesterol and keep glucose levels steady, which is why it’s often recommended for people with diabetes or heart concerns.

However, people who have difficulty swallowing should be careful with Isabgol. It swells and becomes a choking hazard if not consumed with enough liquid. Similarly, if you have any kind of gastrointestinal obstruction or narrowing of the digestive tract, you should definitely speak to a doctor before trying it. Isabgol can also interfere with the absorption of certain medications, so if you’re on heart meds, antidepressants, or anything similar, it’s worth checking with your doctor first. And although it’s rare, some people can be allergic to psyllium, so keep an eye out for any unusual reactions if you’re trying Isabgol for the first time.

How much Isabgol should you have for weight loss?

So, how should you consume Isabgol? A good starting point is 1 to 2 teaspoons (that’s around 5–10 grams) stirred into a full glass of water. If you’re taking Isabgol to aid weight loss, have it about 30 minutes before meals to help you feel full. For digestive support, especially with constipation, taking it before bedtime can also work well. Just remember: drink plenty of water with it. Isabgol without enough water is like going for a run in the sun without sunscreen—it can do more harm than good.

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