At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
How do I Use Psyllium Husk for a Colon Cleanse?
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
The two basic ways to use psyllium husk for a colon cleanse include mixing the husk with water or taking it in a capsule. There are a number of psyllium husk products on the market. One can visit a local health food store or vitamin store and review all of the options that are available. Many people prefer to use the capsules, as the husks expand very quickly when added to water and can cause the resulting beverage to become rather thick. Those who don't mind this effect and are willing to drink the mixture very quickly may be able to use the loose husks in order to complete a colon cleanse.
There are some colon cleansing systems that incorporate herbal teas and herbal supplements into the process. These can aid the process, but are not necessary for the psyllium husk to take effect. Other than husks, the most important ingredient is water. When using psyllium husk for a colon cleanse, the psyllium must have the ability to absorb water and expand in the colon. Without enough water, this process can be compromised and the person may become dehydrated.
Be sure to follow the dosage instructions when using psyllium husks. In most cases, a person who is using them for a colon cleanse will take two doses of psyllium husk per day for the length of the colon cleanse. These doses usually result in bowel movements that are more frequent than usual, larger than usual, or both.
The length of a colon cleanse can vary from a few days to a few weeks. Cleanses that take place over a longer period of time are usually part of a system that involves dietary changes and various supplements. Before using doing a colon cleanse, consult a medical professional. This will help to determine whether it is safe to do and what type of cleanse might best address one's needs.
In order to boost the effectiveness of a colon cleanse using psyllium husk, it is best to avoid processed foods, refined foods, and foods that are high in fat, sugar, and salt. Sticking to fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is a very good way to aid the colon cleansing process. Fruit juices and vegetable juices are also quite helpful.
Diane Goettel
In addition to her work as a freelance writer for TheHealthBoard, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.
Learn more...
Diane Goettel
In addition to her work as a freelance writer for TheHealthBoard, Diane is the executive editor of Black Lawrence Press, an independent publishing company based in upstate New York. She has also edited several anthologies, the e-newsletter Sapling, and The Adirondack Review. Diane has a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College.
Learn more...AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![In order to boost the effectiveness of a colon cleanse, it is important to avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar.]()
By: Ramon GrossoIn order to boost the effectiveness of a colon cleanse, it is important to avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar. -
![Drinking fruit juice may help boost the effectiveness of a colon cleanse.]()
By: Anna KucherovaDrinking fruit juice may help boost the effectiveness of a colon cleanse. -
![It is important to consult with a medical professional before using a colon cleanse.]()
By: sepyIt is important to consult with a medical professional before using a colon cleanse. -
![Psyllium husk.]()
By: MarekPsyllium husk. -
![Psyllium fiber is usually mixed with juice or water.]()
By: anyaivanovaPsyllium fiber is usually mixed with juice or water. -
![Psyllium husk products can be found at a local health food or vitamin store.]()
By: diego cervoPsyllium husk products can be found at a local health food or vitamin store. -
![Psyllium husk can help move waste through the digestive tract, relieving constipation.]()
By: rob3000Psyllium husk can help move waste through the digestive tract, relieving constipation.
Discussion Comments
I have tried a three to five day psyllium husk cleanse with four tablespoon doses, three times per day. Yes, these are heavy doses but my system seems to handle it well. I only use water to assist swallowing the husks. It is kind of gross, but it has no taste really.
Another long term method I use is mixing two tablespoons twice per day with protein powder as a cleanse and food supplement while dieting and working out.
Again, these are heavy doses, but my system responds positively to them.
@turkkay1-- Try starting out with a small dose and then slowly increasing it. All colon cleansing products will cause such side effects if you take the full dose from the beginning.
I tried psyllium husk for regularity but I was disappointed. It's true that it requires consuming a lot of water.
I took the psyllium husk capsules and didn't drink much water with it. I felt terribly dehydrated several hours later. The next day, I drank a lot of water with the psyllium husk but then noticed that I was urinating much more than usual. I also felt really bloated and uncomfortable.
I don't deny that psyllium husk works to cleanse the colon but I don't think the side effects are worth it.
@anon176671-- That sounds like a delicious recipe but my understanding is that psyllium husk as a natural colon cleanser should be taken with water.
At least 8oz of water should be taken with it. I don't think there is any harm in drinking more than that. I don't know if almond milk and yogurt contain enough water.
Psyllium husk without water basically becomes useless for a colon cleanse because it works by pulling water into the intestines. This triggers movement in the bowels. If you don't drink enough water, not only will this not work, but it will definitely make you dehydrated as well. So be on the safe side, and drink a glass or two of water with or after taking the psyllium husk.
I use 2 tablespoons of Psyllium Husk Whole Flakes in a 1/2 cup of frozen yogurt, four frozen strawberries, 8oz of almond milk and a few blue berries, mixed in a blender. All instructions say to drink enough liquid. What is enough liquid (8oz, 16oz etc)?
Post your comments