Psyllium husk is moderately effective in lowering cholesterol, especially LDL (“bad” cholesterol), because its soluble fiber binds bile acids in the gut and helps the body remove more cholesterol; studies show it can reduce LDL by roughly 5–10% when taken consistently with a heart-healthy diet. The common recommended dosage for heart health is about 5–10 grams per day, usually split into 1–2 doses, taken with a full glass of water before meals or mixed into water, juice, or smoothies to improve tolerance. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids because psyllium absorbs water and forms a gel. Side effects can include bloating, gas, or stomach discomfort, especially when starting, and in rare cases it may cause choking or intestinal blockage if not taken with enough water; it can also interfere with absorption of some medications, so it should be taken a few hours apart from other drugs.