Psyllium Husk
Quick answer
A medium portion of Psyllium Husk (5 g) contains 10 kcal, with 0 g of net carbohydrates and 0.1 g of protein.
- Carbs0.1 g36.4%
- Protein0.1 g36.4%
- Fat0 g27.3%
- Fibre4.2 g
Percentages of total energy (calories)
What is psyllium?
Psyllium, or "qatouna" as it is called in Arabic, is the husk of the seeds of a plant called Plantago ovata. It is almost pure fibre: there are 85 g of fibre per 100 g!
How many calories are in psyllium?
There are 190 calories per 100 g, but a tablespoon (5 g) has about 10 calories and 4 g of fibre. So one spoon gives you more fibre than a whole apple.
Does psyllium raise blood sugar?
No. It has almost zero available carbohydrate, because it is mostly fibre that is not digested, so the glycemic index does not apply to it.
How does it work?
Psyllium absorbs water and becomes like a gel. This gel moves through the gut and adds bulk and softness. That is why many people use it for constipation, and also because it gives a feeling of fullness.
Watch out for these things
- You must take it with plenty of water, at least a full glass, otherwise it can get stuck or cause a blockage.
- Start with a small amount (half a spoon) and increase gradually, because it can cause bloating at first.
- If you have any health condition, ask your doctor before you start taking it.
How to use it
- A spoon in a glass of water or juice, and drink it quickly before it sets.
- You can add it to oats or yoghurt.
- In gluten-free baking, it is used to bind the dough.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (5 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal | 9.5 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g | 0.1 g |
| Carbohydrate | 1.5 g | 0.1 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 0 g | 0 g |
| Sugar | not available | — |
| Fat | 0.5 g | 0 g |
| Dietary fibre | 85 g | 4.2 g |
| Glycemic index | Not applicable | |
| Glycemic load | Not applicable | |
| Insulin index | not tested | |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 190 kcal per 100 g, ranking 6 of 30 in Special ingredients & supplements (lowest first).
Frequently asked questions
How many calories are in psyllium?
A tablespoon (5 g) has about 10 calories and 4 g of fibre.
Does psyllium raise blood sugar?
No, it is mostly fibre that is not digested.
How do I take psyllium?
A spoon in at least a full glass of water, and start with half a spoon.
Does psyllium help with weight loss?
It gives a feeling of fullness because it becomes a gel in the stomach, but it does not make you lose weight on its own.
Read also
References & Scientific Sources
- The glycemic index does not apply because this food has less than 5 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, and a GI test requires 25 to 50 g of available carbohydrate, per: ISO 26642:2010. Food products — Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) and recommendation for food classification. International Organization for Standardization; 2010. www.iso.org/standard/43633.html
- Definition of available carbohydrate and glycemic load: FAO/WHO. Carbohydrates in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 66. Rome; 1998. www.fao.org/4/w8079e/w8079e00.htm
Medically reviewed by Dr. Wassim Habib | Founder, WiBo Health · 31 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.