Evidence supporting the use of: Psyllium
For the health condition: Arteriosclerosis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Psyllium, a soluble fiber derived from the husks of Plantago ovata seeds, has scientific support for its use in managing risk factors associated with arteriosclerosis (also known as atherosclerosis). While psyllium does not directly treat arteriosclerosis, it is effective in reducing serum cholesterol levels, which is a major modifiable risk factor for the development and progression of arterial plaque buildup.

Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that daily supplementation with psyllium (typically 7–10 grams per day) can lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels in both hypercholesterolemic and normocholesterolemic individuals. For example, a meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Anderson et al., 2000) found that psyllium intake reduced total cholesterol by about 4% and LDL cholesterol by about 7%. The mechanism is thought to involve binding of bile acids in the gut, promoting their excretion, and thus driving hepatic conversion of cholesterol to bile acids.

While these lipid-lowering effects are well documented, there is less direct evidence that psyllium supplementation alone reduces clinical endpoints such as myocardial infarction or stroke. Nevertheless, by addressing dyslipidemia, psyllium contributes to a comprehensive cardiovascular risk reduction strategy. Current guidelines from organizations such as the FDA and the National Lipid Association recognize psyllium's cholesterol-lowering properties, which indirectly support arteriosclerosis management.

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