Psyllium (Plantago ovata Forsk): From evidence of health benefits to its food application

Publication date: Available online 14 December 2019Source: Trends in Food Science & TechnologyAuthor(s): Elisangela Aparecida Nazario Franco, Ana Sanches-Silva, Regiane Ribeiro-Santos, Nathália Ramos de MeloAbstractBackgroundFiber intake has been associated with a lower risk of developing various chronic diseases such as metabolic diseases (e.g. obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia). In this line, psyllium presents a high content of soluble fiber, associated with health benefits.Scope and approachThe aim of this review is to evaluate the scientific evidence of psyllium health benefits. The nutritional properties of psyllium are presented, as well as its various applications in food products. The main functional benefits of psyllium are presented in topics, as follows: the effect on cholesterol control, on type 2 diabetes, and on obesity and satiety.Key findings and conclusionsProducts containing psyllium can be an effective alternative to improve the functionality and produce healthy foods. The addition of psyllium to a food product (e.g. bakery goods, dairy, meat and gluten-free products). Can provide the health claim for a fiber-containing product, which is an important advantage in the market. In addition, it may allow consumers to ingest adequate amounts of fiber without increasing calorie intake, as well as contributing to other health benefits such as cholesterol control, glycemic control, satiety, among others. Psyllium can be easily added to food formulations and does not...
Source: Trends in Food Science and Technology - Category: Food Science Source Type: research