Dealing with frequent constipation? Gastroenterologist says this one ingredient can bring more relief than medicines

Do you often struggle with bloating, constipation, and the discomfort they bring? According to a gastroenterologist, psyllium husk may offer effective relief.

Regular constipation, bloating, and gas don’t just cause abdominal pain, they affect overall comfort and make daily life difficult. One simple ingredient, psyllium husk, can offer effective relief. Since digestive comfort shouldn’t be a daily struggle, turning to home remedies or "desi nuskhe" can provide both instant relief and long-term benefits for digestion and gut health. That’s where psyllium husk comes in – a humble ingredient with surprisingly powerful benefits.

Expert say this one ingredient can bring relief (Freepik)

By Ishika Narang

Ishika Narang is a Multimedia Writer at the Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience in digital journalism, specialising in health, lifestyle, beauty, and consumer-focused reporting. Her primary coverage areas include evidence-based health journalism, preventive care, wellness trends, and affiliate-driven consumer guides tailored for digital audiences. She began her professional journey in digital media, where she developed expertise in multimedia storytelling and platform-optimised editorial strategies. Over the years, she has worked with reputed organisations such as Park+, Jagran, and Wavel.ai, steadily building credibility in health and consumer journalism. Her work reflects a strong progression in editorial responsibility, combining research-backed reporting with audience-focused content formats. At Hindustan Times, she produces in-depth health and lifestyle features, expert-led explainers, and data-informed consumer stories. She also focuses extensively on affiliate articles, creating well-researched buying guides, product comparisons, and recommendation-based content that balances commercial intent with editorial integrity. Alongside writing, she conceptualises and manages social media storytelling, ensuring content is informative, engaging, and optimised for platform-specific consumption. Her subject expertise includes preventive healthcare, nutrition, supplements, women’s health, beauty trends, consumer awareness, and affiliate commerce content. She integrates expert consultations, peer-reviewed research, verified product analysis, and transparent sourcing. Her strengths lie in evidence-based storytelling, simplifying complex information, and producing reader-first affiliate content that prioritises trust and value. Ishika holds a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) in Marketing from Guru Gobind Indraprastha University, which enhances her understanding of consumer behaviour, digital commerce, and audience engagement, skills that complement her specialisation in consumer and affiliate journalism. She is committed to ethical reporting, transparent affiliate disclosures, rigorous fact-checking, and maintaining editorial credibility, ensuring every story upholds reader trust and journalistic standards.

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Dr Shankar Zanwar, Senior consultant - Gastroenterologist, at Gleneagles Hospital tells Health Shots: “Regular use of psyllium husk supports gut health by improving stool consistency and frequency. It is taken by many people for managing constipation.”

How does psyllium husk help relieve constipation?

Psyllium husk soaks up water in your digestive system, forming a soft, gel-like mass. This adds bulk to the stool and makes it easier to pass, helping relieve constipation without straining or irritation. It stimulates natural bowel movement without irritating the intestines. Regular use also supports gut health by improving stool consistency and frequency. It is taken by people for managing constipation. However, it is important to consult an expert and then only take psyllium husk.

Note: Don’t try anything on your own without the doctor’s knowledge, as what suits others may not work for you.

What leads to constipation?

It occurs when stool passes too slowly through the colon. This occurs as a result of consuming less fibre and fluid. This could also be caused by other factors such as stress, medication, or a lack of physical activity.

Why is psyllium husk or isabgol different from other constipation remedies?

As per the gastroenterologist, the use of psyllium husk:

• Softens stools naturally, reducing pain and strain
• Boosts regular bowel movements over time
• Minimises bloating caused by hard, compacted waste
• Is suitable for long-term use when taken correctly

How to use psyllium husk correctly?

Psyllium husk can be mixed into a full glass of water or milk and consumed immediately, followed by another glass of water. Take it once a night with plenty of fluids to avoid discomfort. It is ideal to consult an expert and follow their instructions. The gastroenterologist advises against exceeding the recommended quantity; 3.5 grams to 7 grams mixed in 8 ounces of water 1–3 times daily is an advisable quantity.

Who should be cautious?

People who have difficulty swallowing, intestinal blockage, or severe abdominal pain should avoid using psyllium husk. Those with chronic gut disorders or on long-term medications should consult a doctor before taking it, says a gastroenterologist.

Lifestyle tips to reduce constipation

While psyllium husk may provide relief against the constipation, below are the lifestyle changes to make as per the gastroenterologist:

• Drink at least 3 litres of water throughout the day to help fibre work effectively and prevent bloating.
• Maintain regular meal times and eat a fibre-rich diet.
• Stay physically active by exercising daily for 45 minutes to regulate bowel movements and manage constipation.

(Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)