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Alba Otero
Writer“Observe, listen, and reflect” is my journalistic mantra. This philosophy guides me daily and ensures I produce quality journalism. My restlessness has led me explore new areas, such as sustainability and the energy transition, which are crucial to our future. In addition, I’ve also dabbled in street photography, an art that allows me to capture the essence of journalism in action.
Karen Alfaro
WriterCommunications professional with a decade of experience as a copywriter, proofreader, and editor. As a travel and science journalist, I've collaborated with several print and digital outlets around the world. I'm passionate about culture, music, food, history, and innovative technologies.
Like all revolutions, Ozempic came with promises and a hidden price. Then came the side effects, cost and need for a prescription. As its shadow grows, an alternative option is emerging that doesn’t require injections, thanks to an ancient seed.
The husk of a seed. What started as a traditional remedy in South Asia is now trending on TikTok. More than 13,000 videos under the hashtag #psylliumhusk show how to incorporate this fiber into recipes and weight-loss tips, appetite-curbing strategies, and ways to improve digestion. But behind this viral phenomenon lies something much simpler.
Psyllium is the husk surrounding the seeds of Plantago ovata, a modest yet practical plant. It has long served as a mild laxative due to its ability to form a paste and ease intestinal transit.
Psyllium can be consumed in powder form, in capsules or raw, resembling wood shavings. When psyllium husk touches water, it forms a thick gel. This viscosity explains many of its benefits.
The science behind it. Psyllium’s secret lies in how it reacts to water: It absorbs and forms a thick gel. This process helps reduce appetite, improve intestinal transit and control cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Research has confirmed that consuming 10 to 15 grams daily can lower LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol.
It’s not that simple. While enthusiasm on social media platforms is understandable, experts urge caution for safety reasons. Lena Beal, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, told The Guardian that 4.1 cups of water is needed for every 20 grams of fiber in psyllium. Not consuming enough liquid can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages.
Not for everyone. Just because it is natural doesn’t mean it is harmless. The Cleveland Clinic doesn’t recommend psyllium for people who have difficulty swallowing or serious intestinal conditions such as stenosis, Crohn’s disease, and chronic digestive disorders. The clinic also advises caution when taking medication, as fiber can interfere with absorption.
Natural Ozempic? Psyllium husk doesn’t affect the hormonal system the way GLP-1 agonists do. Although it can support weight loss, it’s not as effective or consistent.
One more benefit: Eating more fiber remains one of the most consistent recommendations in modern nutritional science. Ultimately, it’s about making long-term improvements to your diet and adopting a broader view of self-care.
Image | Dennis Sylvester Hurd
Related | There’s No Such Thing as a Natural Ozempic Diet, but Following These Tips Can Help
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