Contents
When psyllium should not be taken?
Contraindications of psyllium with some medications
Psyllium may be contraindicated when used with some medications, because it can decrease or enhance their effects.
It is necessary to consult with a doctor in case of taking medications.
Psyllium is contraindicated in the following cases:
- Diabetes: Since psyllium lowers blood sugar levels, when used together with diabetes medications, it can lower them too much. It will be necessary to control the medication and monitor sugar levels to avoid problems in case the doctor prescribes both treatments at the same time.
This plant should not be taken before and after surgical procedures, as its use involves difficulty in measuring sugar levels.
This should also be taken into account when using other hypoglycemic medicinal plants or remedies that lower blood sugar levels. Among the main products are the following: horse chestnut , ginseng , Siberian ginseng , garlic , chromium , and lipoic acid . (See plants for diabetes )
- Hypertension : Psyllium lowers blood pressure, so when combined with hypertension medication, it could lower it too much. It will be necessary to monitor medication and blood pressure to avoid problems if the doctor prescribes both treatments at the same time.
This should also be taken into account when using other medicinal plants or remedies that lower blood sugar levels. Some supplements to consider include: coenzyme Q10 , fish oil , and L-arginine. (See also Plants for Hypertension and Supplements for Hypertension )
- Hypotension : People with low blood pressure should not take psyllium as its use may further aggravate their problem.
- Swallowing problems : This herb should not be used if the person has difficulty swallowing food. Its use could cause choking.
- Allergy : Do not take psyllium products if you are sensitive to this herb or suspect hypersensitivity.
- Phenylketonuria : Some psyllium preparations contain phenylalanine , especially those sweetened with aspartame . Therefore, psyllium should be avoided by people with phenylketonuria.
- Intestinal tumors : It is suspected that the use of this plant may promote the appearance of colorectal adenomas, so it should not be used by people who already have a history of these problems.
Is psyllium contraindicated during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Taken under the right conditions, psyllium is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, it’s always advisable to consult a doctor in these cases.
More information on psyllium
