Psyllium husk, a fibre supplement sold for £12.50 in Boots, has been gaining popularity on TikTok as a weight loss aid. Many users have claimed that this sawdust-like supplement is a natural and cheaper alternative to Ozempic, a popular weight loss jab. Dr Enaka Yembe, a prominent figure online, has even referred to psyllium husk as the ‘the poor man’s Ozempic’ due to its similar effects on weight loss.
According to Dr Yembe, both psyllium husk and Ozempic induce feelings of fullness and stabilize blood sugars, leading to weight loss. She explained that the fibre supplement binds to water in the stomach, forming a gel that slows the emptying of digested food, keeping individuals fuller for longer. Similarly, Ozempic slows down digestion by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, reducing feelings of hunger and promoting rapid weight loss.
TikTok videos showcasing the benefits of psyllium husk for weight loss have gone viral, with some clips garnering hundreds of thousands of views. Users have shared their success stories, with one claiming to have achieved a summer-ready body in just five days of taking the supplement. Another user mentioned that psyllium husk helped her shed water weight, while a third user felt less bloated after mixing the supplement with water and apple cider vinegar.
Registered nutritionist Rob Hobson highlighted the digestive benefits of psyllium husk, emphasizing its role in promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. He noted that the supplement’s ability to absorb water in the gut can make passing stools easier and reduce appetite, making it a valuable addition to a weight loss plan. Additionally, psyllium husk may support colon health, act as a prebiotic to promote good gut bacteria, and potentially reduce the risk of inflammatory gut diseases.
However, Hobson cautioned that psyllium husk may not lead to significant weight loss on its own and may not be suitable for individuals with a history of bowel problems or severe gastrointestinal conditions like Crohn’s disease. He also warned that the supplement could interfere with the absorption of certain medications, particularly diabetes or cholesterol drugs, if taken simultaneously.
Dr Duane Mellor, a spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association, emphasized that there is no magic secret to the effects of psyllium husk and that most high-fibre foods, such as pulses and oats, can have a similar appetite-curbing impact. While psyllium husk may be a useful tool for managing appetite and supporting digestive health, it is essential to incorporate it into a balanced weight loss plan and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
