Flaxseed and psyllium husk are two natural ingredients that can provide you with many health benefits. Flaxseed is the seed of the flax plant, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber. At the same time, the psyllium husk is the outer layer of the seeds of the plantago ovata plant, which is a source of soluble fiber that can absorb water and form a gel in your digestive tract. Taking flaxseed and psyllium husk together can enhance their effects and help you achieve your wellness goals. Here are five benefits of taking flaxseed and psyllium husk together.
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1. It can lower your cholesterol and blood sugar levels
Both flaxseed and psyllium husk can help lower your cholesterol and blood sugar levels by interfering with their absorption in your intestines. Flaxseed contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid that can reduce inflammation and improve your lipid profile.
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It also contains lignans, which are phytoestrogens that can modulate your hormone levels and lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol. Psyllium husk can bind to bile acids, which are made from cholesterol, and prevent them from being reabsorbed into your bloodstream.
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Apart from this, Psyllium husk can also slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, which can prevent spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels. By taking flaxseed and psyllium husk together, you can improve your cardiovascular health and reduce your risk of diabetes.
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2. It can improve your digestion and bowel movements
Both flaxseed and psyllium husk can improve your digestion and bowel movements by providing you with fiber, which is essential for a healthy gut. Flaxseed contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can add bulk and moisture to your stool, making it easier to pass. The seed can also act as a natural laxative, stimulating your bowel movements and preventing constipation.
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While psyllium husk is mainly composed of soluble fiber, which can absorb water and form a gel-like substance in your intestines, this can help soften your stool, lubricate your colon, and relieve constipation. Psyllium husk can also act as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut and supporting your immune system.
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By taking flaxseed and psyllium husk together, you can enhance your gut health and detoxify your body.
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3. It can support your weight loss efforts
Both flaxseed and psyllium husk can support your weight loss efforts by reducing your appetite and cravings, increasing your metabolism, and enhancing the effects of other weight loss strategies. Flaxseed can help you feel fuller for longer by expanding in your stomach and releasing hormones that suppress your hunger.
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It can also help you burn more calories by increasing your thermogenesis, which is the process of generating heat in your body. On the other hand, psyllium husk can help you feel fuller for longer by forming a gel in your stomach and intestines, which slows down the digestion and absorption of food.
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The husk can also help you control your blood sugar levels, which prevents hunger and cravings. By taking flaxseed and psyllium husk together, you can optimize your weight loss results and achieve your goals faster.
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4. It can protect you from oxidative stress and inflammation
Flaxseed contains antioxidants, such as lignans, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and vitamin E, which can scavenge free radicals and protect your cells from oxidative stress. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can modulate inflammation levels in your body and prevent excessive or chronic inflammation.
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Similarly, psyllium husk also protects you from oxidative stress by binding to toxins and free radicals in your gut and eliminating them from your body. By taking flaxseed and psyllium husk together, you can enhance your antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defenses and prevent or treat various diseases.
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5. It can boost your brain health and mood
Both flaxseed and psyllium husk can boost your brain health and mood by providing you with nutrients and compounds that can improve your cognitive function. Flaxseed contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for the structure and function of your brain cells. It improves your blood flow to your brain, which can enhance your oxygen and nutrient delivery.
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On the other hand, psyllium husk can also boost your brain health and mood by improving your gut health and microbiome. Your gut microbiome can also influence your brain health and mood by modulating inflammation levels in your body and brain. By taking flaxseed and psyllium husk together, you can enhance your brain health and mood and prevent or treat various mental disorders.
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Conclusion
Flaxseed and psyllium husk are two natural ingredients that can provide you with many health benefits. Taking them together can enhance their effects and help you lower your cholesterol and blood sugar levels, improve your digestion and bowel movements, support your weight loss efforts, protect you from oxidative stress and inflammation, and boost your brain health and mood.
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You can find flaxseed and psyllium husk in different forms, such as whole seeds, powder, capsules, or wafers. You can take them with water or mix them with other liquids or foods. The recommended dosage is about 10 to 30 grams per day for each ingredient, depending on your needs and tolerance.
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To avoid the side effects, you should always drink plenty of water, start with a low dose, and gradually increase it.
