The use of psyllium husk as a weight loss aid is gaining popularity among individuals looking for a cost-effective alternative to expensive weight-loss injections. Referred to as the “poor man’s Ozempic,” psyllium husk is being praised for its ability to help with weight loss by inducing feelings of fullness, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and assisting with weight loss. Online influencers and individuals looking to trim down have been incorporating psyllium husk into their daily routines to help shed a few pounds.
As the trend of achieving a slim figure continues to be popular, with injectables like Ozempic and Wegovy costing around $1,000 a month, individuals are seeking more affordable methods to achieve their weight loss goals. DIY blends such as “Ricezempic” and “Oatzempic” have gained attention on social media, but a new concoction known as “tadpole water” has become a recent favorite among those looking to slim down. Psyllium husk, which can be purchased for as little as $8, has also been credited by users for its weight loss benefits, including constipation relief, blood sugar management, and cholesterol regulation.
According to a family medicine physician, psyllium husk and Ozempic have similarities in terms of inducing feelings of fullness and stabilizing blood sugars. Psyllium husk works by binding to water, forming a gel in the stomach, slowing down stomach emptying, and slowing the absorption of sugar, while Ozempic tells the brain one is full, slows down digestion, and stimulates insulin production. The physician also highlighted that psyllium husk is available as a dietary supplement, while Ozempic requires a prescription and listed the side effects of each aid.
Although psyllium husk has been praised by some individuals for its weight loss benefits, including regulating digestive systems, scientists have not conducted clinical trials to officially deem it a cheap substitute for weight loss injections. While psyllium husk can support weight loss to some extent, it may not have the same potential as medication. Registered dietitian Julia Zumpano explained that psyllium husk and medication work differently in the body and that more research is needed to compare the two.
Online influencers and individuals who have incorporated psyllium husk into their routines have reported positive experiences with the supplement, including regulating bowel movements and aiding with weight loss. Despite the lack of clinical trials comparing psyllium husk to weight-loss medications, the popularity of the natural alternative continues to rise among budget-conscious individuals seeking to achieve their weight loss goals. Psyllium husk’s affordability and claimed benefits make it an attractive option for those looking to shed a few pounds without breaking the bank.
