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How do I Determine the Appropriate Psyllium Dosage?

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

The appropriate psyllium dosage for adults usually ranges from between one two two tablespoons (between about 14 and 28 grams) of psyllium husk. This dosage can be taken once or twice daily. For those who have never before used a colon-cleansing product like psyllium, it is important to consult a doctor before using the product. With a doctor's approval, it may make sense to begin with the lowest dosage, one tablespoon (about 14 grams) taken just once daily. Before children use this product, be sure to get the approval of the child's pediatrician and also ask for recommendations regarding the psyllium dosage based on the child's age.

For those who are using psyllium as part of a cleanse, one should take the psyllium dosage that is recommended for that specific cleanse. In some cases, packaged cleansing systems will come with psyllium capsules and dosage instructions. One of the most important things to remember when taking psyllium is to drink plenty of water. Psyllium absorbs a great deal of water, which is one of the reasons that it works so well to form bulk in the bowels. In order to work properly, the product must have plenty of water to absorb.

Psyllium husk.
Psyllium husk.

People who use psyllium on a regular basis often find a dosage that works well for them. While it is important not to go over the recommended psyllium dosage, it is a good practice to find a dosage level within the recommended range that seems to work well. With the approval of a doctor, the regular psyllium dosage may be increased in order to treat diarrhea.

Psyllium can be consumed in powder form.
Psyllium can be consumed in powder form.

In most cases, side effects of psyllium are minor. The most common side effect is abdominal bloating. It is possible for psyllium to interact negatively with some medications. Psyllium can cause medication, along with all other ingested solids, to move through the body more quickly than they would on their own. This means that medications that are taken along with psyllium may not be appropriately or entirely absorbed.

Some individuals may experience gas and bloating as a side effect of psyllium husk.
Some individuals may experience gas and bloating as a side effect of psyllium husk.

This can be managed by either reducing the number of doses of psyllium that one takes in a day or to reducing the psyllium dosage. In some cases, people who are experiencing this problem may have to use psyllium in very small doses or stop using psyllium altogether.

Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, 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.

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Diane Goettel
Diane Goettel

In addition to her work as a freelance writer for WiseGEEK, 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.

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    • Psyllium husk.
      By: Marek
      Psyllium husk.
    • Psyllium can be consumed in powder form.
      By: Orlando Bellini
      Psyllium can be consumed in powder form.
    • Some individuals may experience gas and bloating as a side effect of psyllium husk.
      By: michaeljung
      Some individuals may experience gas and bloating as a side effect of psyllium husk.
    • It is important to drink plenty of water when taking psyllium.
      By: Alliance
      It is important to drink plenty of water when taking psyllium.
    • It is important to consult a pediatrician before giving a child psyllium.
      By: V&P Photo Studio
      It is important to consult a pediatrician before giving a child psyllium.
    • It is important to read all package instructions to determine how psyllium may interfere with other medications.
      By: diego cervo
      It is important to read all package instructions to determine how psyllium may interfere with other medications.
    • Patients who have never used a colon-cleansing product should consult with a doctor prior to taking psyllium.
      By: Gabriel Blaj
      Patients who have never used a colon-cleansing product should consult with a doctor prior to taking psyllium.