Guar gum is a food containing fiber derived from the guar plant. Although it is suspected to have several benefits for the health of the body, you also need to know the side effects behind the use of this herbal product.
Guar gum is high in fiber, but low in calories. Apart from being used as a food thickener, lotion, and cream, guar gum is also often used as a medicine to treat various digestive disorders and problems and as a laxative supplement.
Benefits of Guar Gum on Health
A study revealed that the fiber content in guar gum can maintain a healthy digestive system. This herbal product is thought to be able to overcome constipation, change the texture of the stool to be more liquid, and increase the frequency of bowel movements.
Given the fiber content in it, guar gum is believed to help overcome acne irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A study even revealed that drinking 5-10 grams of guar gum for three months showed significant results in improving IBS symptoms.
Besides being believed to be able to maintain a healthy digestive system, guar gum is also thought to be efficacious for:
Lowers blood sugar and cholesterol
Guar gum is rich in fiber that can absorb water which has the potential to slow down the process of absorption of sugar in the blood, this is often associated with its ability to control blood sugar levels.
In addition, a study found a decrease in bad cholesterol (LDL) levels in a group of people who took 15 grams of guar gum supplements. This decrease was not found in the group of people who only took placebo pills (empty pills without supplements).
Lose weight
Several studies have shown that the high fiber content of guar gum can help increase satiety, while reducing appetite, which in turn reduces daily calorie intake.
One study even found weight loss in people who consumed guar gum regularly.
But remember, healthy weight loss doesn't just rely on the consumption of one type of food. The recommended weight loss is to implement a healthy diet and balanced with regular exercise.
Although it has a variety of effects and benefits that are good for health, consuming guar gum in excessive amounts can cause you to pass gas more frequently, flatulence, cramps, and diarrhea.
Consuming herbal and natural ingredients is not entirely wrong. However, always weigh the benefits and risks of using it. If you have certain medical complaints or conditions, always consult your doctor first to get safe and appropriate treatment, including if you want to consume guar gum. This is to prevent harmful side effects.
