Remedy · supplement
Psyllium (soluble fiber)
Also: ispaghula, Plantago ovata, metamucil
A viscous fiber that lowers cholesterol and normalizes bowel habits.
Active compounds Soluble fiber
Evidence by condition
Each grade reflects the research for Psyllium (soluble fiber) and that condition specifically.
- AHigh cholesterol
Lowers LDL cholesterol by roughly 5–10%.
1 citation
- Effect of psyllium fiber on LDL cholesterol and alternative lipid targets: a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs Meta-analysis 2018 · American Journal of Clinical Nutrition · DOI 10.1093/ajcn/nqy121
- Effect of psyllium fiber on LDL cholesterol and alternative lipid targets: a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs
- BIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Soluble (not insoluble) fiber modestly improves overall IBS symptoms.
1 citation
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome MedlinePlus · accessed 2026-06-21
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- BConstipation
A bulk-forming laxative that increases stool frequency and softens stool.
1 citation
- Constipation MedlinePlus · accessed 2026-06-21
- Constipation