Ask the doctor: How much psyllium is needed to lower cholesterol?
The amount needed to lower cholesterol is 10 to 20 grams a day. Psyllium is generally taken three times a day, just before each meal, either in a capsule or as a powder that you mix with water or juice. Make sure you drink at least 8 ounces of water, juice, or other fluid every time you take psyllium, otherwise you run the risk of it swelling and blocking the esophagus or bowels. Start slowly, say with�one-half�tablespoon in 8 ounces of water once a day, and gradually increase to the full dose. The most common side effects are gas, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
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