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Suffering from constipation? Try these alternatives to chia seeds

Isabgol offers more fibre and digestive benefits than chia seeds, effectively relieving constipation and supporting overall gut health.

By NES Web Desk

Dec 18, 2025 17:03 IST

Chia seeds have been trending for several years. These black and white seeds help with everything from weight loss to cleansing the stomach. According to experts, these chia seeds contain abundant fibre, which is essential for health. However, not just chia seeds, you'll get even more fibre from isabgol. At one time, many people used to dissolve isabgol in water at night to relieve constipation. But currently, chia seeds have taken the place of isabgol. However, you'll get more nutrition from isabgol than from chia.

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Which should you choose for constipation problems?

100 grams of chia seeds contain approximately 34 grams of dietary fibre. On the other hand, 100 grams of isabgol provides 70-80 grams of dietary fibre. Not only that, 85-90 per cent of chia seed fibre is soluble. This means eating chia seeds keeps cholesterol and sugar levels under control. Additionally, weight doesn't increase. Isabgol's fibre is insoluble, which helps eliminate constipation problems. Isabgol softens stool and cleanses the stomach.

What other benefits does eating isabgol provide?

Isabgol contains both soluble and insoluble fibre. Therefore, eating isabgol also keeps weight under control. Isabgol can also reduce LDL cholesterol levels. It even keeps blood sugar levels under control.

Eating isabgol keeps the stomach full for a long time. This reduces the desire to eat unnecessary food. Besides, isabgol aids digestion. The fibre in it creates a protective layer in the stomach, which helps prevent indigestion.

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Isabgol is a type of prebiotic. Therefore, it is especially beneficial for intestinal health. Apart from eliminating constipation problems, it also increases the number of good bacteria in the intestines.

How will you include isabgol in your daily diet?

You can eat 1-2 teaspoons of isabgol per day. Mixing isabgol with water or milk provides the best benefits. Besides, isabgol can also be eaten mixed with yoghurt. However, it's important to drink adequate water with isabgol. To relieve constipation, you can eat isabgol 30 minutes before going to sleep at night.

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