What is it?

Psyllium husk is – as you would guess – the husk of a plant called Plantago Ovato which grows mainly in northern India.

What can it do for me?

Keep you regular! Psyllium husk is a bulk forming laxative, meaning it absorbs excess water and softens stools, making them easier to pass. So it can help both constipation and also mild diaorrea.

Psyllium husk is a prebiotic, meaning it feeds the good bacteria in your gut.

Some studies have also shown that when consumed as part of a healthy diet it can also reduce cholesterol and lower blood pressure.

How can I incorporate psyllium husk into my diet?

Add a teaspoon to a smoothie.

Stir a teaspoon into a glass of water and drink it plain – this is a good idea for travelling if you suffer from ‘not my loo’ induced constipation.

Make a loaf of Super Soaked Oats Bread. Warning : I know someone who ate two slices of this in one sitting, which contained about 2 tsp, and as her body was not used to the psyllium and flax she described the effects as ‘explosive.’ So go easy if you are new to psyllium husk.

Make these delicious psyllium husk pancakes :

Blend 1 banana, 1 egg, 2 tbsp oats, 1 tbsp ground flax seeds , 1 tsp psyllium husk until smooth. Heat a tsp of oil in a frying pan and place batter into pan – I like to make three small ones – and dot with blueberries (optional). Eat immediately with whatever toppings you like – I like to have some yoghurt with extra berries on the side, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

I don’t recommend adding psyllium husk to porridge. I once tried stirring it into my morning bowl and it went gluey and gloppy and wasn’t nice to eat, but I have loved it in everything else.

We are all unique individuals with different bodies and needs, so what works for me what might not work for you, I’m just saying that since I have started adding psyllium husk into my diet I have felt great. It’s a really easy way to make a meal more satisfying and good for your gut, so if any of this sounds appealing to you it may be worth exploring for yourself too.