Reducing salt while maintaining meat product quality is important, and psyllium husk may help preserve quality and protein digestibility. This study was conducted to evaluate how the addition of psyllium husk powder (PHP) affects the rheological properties of chicken myofibrillar protein (MP) at various NaCl concentrations. Additionally, an in vitro digestion model was applied to evaluate the effects of PHP on protein digestibility. As NaCl increased, the viscosity of MP increased, and the addition of PHP further increased viscosity. The hydrophobicity increased with higher NaCl levels. However, the addition of PHP reduced the protein surface hydrophobicity within a given NaCl level. SH groups decreased while S-S groups increased as NaCl levels increased, and at a given NaCl level, the addition of PHP promoted the conversion of SH groups into S-S groups. Regardless of the NaCl level, adding PHP resulted in a stronger biopolymer band in the SDS-PAGE gel. The cooking yield and gel strength, which decreased with the NaCl level, were improved by the addition of PHP. In vitro digestion showed that PHP addition reduced protein digestibility in 0.15 M NaCl MP gels, had no effect at 0.30 M NaCl, and increased the digestibility at 0.45 M NaCl. Thus, the addition of PHP can improve the rheological properties of MP gels at lower NaCl levels, but may have different effects on protein digestibility depending on the NaCl level. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: These findings provide valuable insights for the meat processing industry, supporting the development of low-sodium meat products with improved digestibility, product quality, and overall product quality.

This study evaluated psyllium gel (PG) combined with micronized NaCl, KCl, and monosodium glutamate (MKG) to reformulate fat- and sodium-reduced pork burgers. Fifty percent of pork backfat was replaced with PG prepared at 1:2, 1:4, and 1:6 psyllium:water ratios. In sodium-reduced formulations, 2.0% NaCl was replaced with 1.8% MKG (micronized NaCl:KCl:monosodium glutamate, 1:0.5:0.3). PG incorporation reduced fat content by 33.6-43.8% and saturated fatty acids by approximately 34-44%, increased cooking yield by 13.5-21.6% compared with MKG, and reduced hardness by 43.5-65.3% and chewiness by 65.7-83.8% compared with the Control. Compared with the Control, MKG-containing treatments had approximately 43% less sodium and 87.6-96.3% more potassium, reducing the molar Na/K ratio from 4.69 to 1.36-1.42. PG-containing formulations met the European criteria for the "reduced fat" and "reduced saturated fat" claims, whereas MKG-containing formulations met the criterion for "reduced sodium"; consequently, PG + MKG formulations met all three nutritional claims. pH differed among treatments (5.44-5.81), whereas redness was not significantly affected and some PG-containing formulations showed lower lightness than the Control. In the trained-panel descriptive sensory analysis, PG1:4 + MKG was associated with tenderness and juiciness, whereas PG1:6 + MKG was more closely associated with salty taste despite its lower sodium content. These findings demonstrate the technical feasibility of combining PG and MKG for simultaneous fat and sodium reduction in fresh pork burgers at a fixed 50% backfat replacement level. Storage stability and consumer acceptance should be evaluated before the practical applicability of this reformulation strategy can be established.

Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome (SRUS) is a rare benign disorder of the rectum strongly associated with chronic straining and rectal mucosal prolapse, which may be overt or occult. Its endoscopic appearance is highly variable, and atypical presentations can create significant diagnostic challenges, particularly in immunocompromised patients in whom infectious etiologies must be systematically excluded. We report a case of SRUS presenting as simultaneous contralateral kissing rectal ulcers in an HIV positive patient. Histopathology demonstrated the characteristic triad of fibromuscular obliteration of the lamina propria, smooth muscle extension between distorted crypts, and muscularis mucosae hypertrophy, establishing occult internal mucosal prolapse as the underlying mechanism. Comprehensive infectious evaluation including targeted testing for cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Chlamydia trachomatis including lymphogranuloma venereum serovars was entirely negative. The patient achieved complete symptomatic resolution on conservative therapy with psyllium fiber supplementation at 2-month follow-up. This case illustrates an uncommon endoscopic presentation of SRUS, the diagnostic importance of histopathology in the absence of visible mucosal prolapse, and a systematic infectious exclusion approach in an HIV positive patient that may serve as a clinical reference for similar presentations.

The accumulation of sand in the abdomen is a rising risk for colic in horses. Sand mainly accumulates in the ascending colon in the cranioventral abdomen. Evacuation of sand is facilitated by the application of psyllium supported with a laxative via nasogastric intubation. Laxatives currently used are either sodium sulfate/magnesium sulfate or mineral oil. The aim of this study was to compare the efficiency of polyethylene glycol, a laxative already used in human medicine for chronic constipation, with that of the above-described, established therapy options. Therefore, 44 horses diagnosed with sand enteropathy were randomly assigned and received psyllium in combination with either sodium sulfate, mineral oil or polyethylene glycol for four days. Pre- and post-therapy radiographs were assessed using a modified scoring system of Keppie et al. and Kendall et al. Adverse side effects during treatment were recorded and compared between treatment options. Median score reduction of sodium sulfate was -2 points, of polyethylene glycol -3.5 points and of mineral oil -2.5 points. Sand severity score was significantly reduced following all treatment options (p < 0.001), but did not differ between groups (p = 0.428). As all therapy regimens were successful in eliminating sand, polypropylene glycol might be the best option, as no adverse effects have been described in the literature or were seen in this study.

Despite decades of research showing that dietary fiber is linked to lower rates of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer, most adults consume less than half of the recommended daily amount. For many patients, the advice to "eat more fiber" is familiar but not well understood in practice. Because fiber significantly influences gut health, glycemic control, lipid metabolism, and satiety, it has important implications for preventing and managing chronic diseases. Historical Definitions of Dietary Fiber Dietary fiber is a complex carbohydrate from the structural parts of plant foods, generally classified as soluble or insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and is partially fermented in the colon, while insoluble fiber does not dissolve and mainly adds bulk to the stool.[ASPEN Adult Nutrition Support Core Curriculum, Fourth Edition. 2025] No single universally accepted definition of dietary fiber has been established. In 1953, E.H. Hipsley of Australia first described fiber as the "nondigestible constituent that makes up the plant cell wall." Since then, many organizations and countries have proposed different definitions.  Creating a universally accepted definition remains difficult as researchers discover new compounds that share either the chemical structure or the physiological functions of fiber, but not always both. From a health perspective, fiber is best defined by its physiological effects, eg, supporting regular bowel movements, improving glycemic control, and lowering cholesterol. However, for food labeling and analytical purposes, scientists and regulatory agencies rely on the Association of Official Analytical Chemists' definition, based on chemical and analytical properties. Most definitions agree that fiber is composed of carbohydrates and lignin that resist digestion in the small intestine and are partially or fully fermented in the large intestine, producing beneficial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids. Understanding these definitions is essential for clinicians, as it supports effective patient counseling, accurate interpretation of nutrition labels, and selection of foods that reliably provide the intended health benefits. Nutritional Impact of Dietary Fiber All dietary fiber comes from plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Fiber plays a vital role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and gastrointestinal health. Soluble fibers, eg, pectin, gums, mucilage, fructans, and some resistant starches, absorb water to form a gel that slows gastric emptying, delays glucose absorption, and blunts postmeal blood sugar spikes. Soluble fiber also binds bile acids, modestly lowering LDL cholesterol levels, and acts as a prebiotic substrate for gut microbiota that produce short-chain fatty acids, which decrease inflammation and support metabolic and immune functions. In contrast, insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water. Insoluble fibers include lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose, which reduce intestinal transit time and increase fecal bulk to promote digestive regularity. Both soluble and insoluble fibers enhance satiety, aid in weight management, and support cardiovascular and metabolic health. Added, or functional, fiber refers to indigestible carbohydrates that are extracted or isolated from plant sources and have been shown to offer health benefits, including better blood glucose regulation, lower cholesterol, and improved bowel regularity. This category includes certain concentrated or synthetically produced nondigestible carbohydrates, eg, psyllium, resistant starch, inulin, polydextrose, and cellulose. The effects of added fibers vary based on their chemical structure and physical properties, and laboratory-synthesized fibers must demonstrate proven health benefits before being labeled as dietary fiber. Adding fibers to foods can help individuals meet daily fiber goals when the naturally occurring fiber from whole foods is insufficient. Consumers can identify added fibers by looking for terms like "soluble fiber," "psyllium," "inulin," "resistant starch," or "functional fiber," which are listed under total dietary fiber on the Nutrition Facts label. Dietary Fiber Recommendations The recommended adequate daily intake for fiber is 25 g for women and 38 g for men, or 14 g per 1,000 kcal consumed. This recommendation is based on evidence showing protection against coronary heart disease and other chronic diseases. It is supported by the Institute of Medicine, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and major U.S. guidelines. For children and adolescents, the target intake varies by age and sex, from 19 g daily for young children to 31 to 38 g/day for older boys and 25 to 26 g/day for older girls. Between 2017 and 2020, the mean consumption of dietary fiber by American adults was only 17 g per day, about half of the recommended adequate intake level. Approximately 94% of American children and adults fail to meet the adequate intake levels for dietary fiber. Dietary sources include: Soluble fiber: Fruits high in soluble fiber: apples, pears, citrus, berries, plums, peaches, and apricots. Vegetables high in soluble fiber: carrots, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, turnips, onions, and asparagus. Legumes, grains, and seeds high in soluble fiber: beans, lentils, chickpeas, oats, barley, rye, and chia seeds. Insoluble fiber : Fruits high in insoluble fiber: apples and pears with skin, berries (especially raspberries and blackberries), grapes, bananas, and oranges. Vegetables high in insoluble fiber: green beans, cauliflower, zucchini, broccoli stems, leafy greens (spinach, kale, and collards), potatoes, celery, and bell peppers. Other sources of insoluble fiber: whole grains (whole wheat, brown rice, rye, corn bran, and bulgur), nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds), legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas, and peas).

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual irregularities are common concerns among women in their menstruating years and may negatively affect physical health, emotional well-being, daily functioning, and overall quality of life. This prospective, virtual, single-arm clinical trial evaluated the use of Two Moons Seed Cycling Capsules, ZEST and ZEN, on changes in the severity and frequency of PMS-related symptoms across two menstrual cycles. ZEST, comprising organic flaxseed and organic pumpkin seed, was taken during days 1-14 of the cycle, while ZEN, comprising organic sesame seed, organic sunflower seed, and other organic ingredients not traditionally used in seed cycling, psyllium, and chasteberry (also known as Vitex agnus-castus), was taken during days 15-28 of the cycle. A total of 40 women aged 21-46 years completed a baseline survey and began product use at the start of their next menstrual period. Follow-up questionnaires were completed at the end of Cycle 1 and Cycle 2. By the end of Cycle 2, participants demonstrated significant improvement in Menstrual Symptom Questionnaire (MSQ) scores, Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) scores for menstrual cramping, and a 73.86% decrease in the number of sick days attributed to menstrual-related issues. All nine evaluated PMS-related symptom parameters showed significant improvement by the end of Cycle 2. These included reductions in the frequency of digestive upset, breast tenderness, and PMS symptoms that interfered with productivity. Participant perception data further indicated strong satisfaction with the product experience. By the end of Cycle 2, 10 of 15 product-related statements received strong (≥70%) or majority agreement (50-69%) from the participants, including perceived improvements in premenstrual and menstrual pain (n = 28, 71.79%), cramping (n = 26, 66.67%), bloating (n = 26, 66.67%), mood (n = 24, 61.54%), sleep (n = 24, 61.54%), and skin clarity (n = 24, 61.54%). Overall, the findings suggest that intake of the test product was associated with cumulative reductions in the severity and frequency of PMS-related symptoms over two menstrual cycles. These results support the potential role of seed cycling capsules as a wellness intervention for managing premenstrual and menstrual symptoms. However, because this study used an open-label, single-arm design without a control group, further large-scale, randomized, controlled studies are recommended to validate these findings and better assess the efficacy of the test product.

Psyllium husk gel (PHG) is a soluble dietary fiber with well-documented health benefits, yet its application in whole wheat products is constrained by complex interactions with the gluten network. This study investigated the effects of PHG at 0%, 2%, 8%, and 14% on the phase mass and protein redistribution, microstructure, thermal properties, and steamed bread quality of whole wheat dough. PHG reduced the aqueous phase mass after ultracentrifugation and reallocated proteins predominantly to the water-insoluble fraction, while non-protein substances shifted to the water-soluble fraction associated with insoluble matter. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that PHG transformed the dough from discrete starch granules into continuous aggregates with enhanced granule coverage, and X-ray micro-computed tomography further quantified that PHG increased mean gas cell wall thickness by 3.2%-43.1%, with uniform thickening achieved only at 8% addition. At 14%, PHG disrupted thickness uniformity and reduced the optimal thermal stability observed at 8%, as evidenced by a 28.6% higher tan δ at 60°C and a 15.8% lower residual weight at 350°C. Nevertheless, both 8% and 14% PHG still maintained favorable crumb cellular structure, characterized by higher junction numbers and increased cell wall thickness relative to the control, which resulted in higher springiness even after 7 days of short-term storage. These findings clarify how PHG redistributes dough components and reinforces gas cell walls, and provide a practical basis for improving the quality and storage stability of high-fiber whole wheat steamed bread.

Texture critically drives food acceptance or rejection, with oral processing varying widely among individuals and influencing dynamic perception and bolus formation. Adaptive strategies like tongue-palate squeezing often replace chewing in populations with masticatory or swallowing challenges (e.g., tooth loss, sarcopenia, xerostomia), yet their impact on texture perception, muscle activity, and bolus properties remain poorly evaluated, particularly in comparison to traditional chewing. This study compared chewing versus squeezing effects on texture perception, processing parameters (oro-exposure, muscle activity, salivation), and bolus properties using mashed potato (MP) enriched with psyllium (MP-psyllium) or xanthan (MP-xanthan). Twenty-six participants processed samples via chewing or squeezing until they were ready to swallow. Sensory evaluation covered textural (hardness, stickiness, cohesion) and hedonic (taste, texture, overall liking) properties. Electromyography measured masticatory muscle activity and chewing duration. Boluses were collected for saliva and texture analysis. Squeezing increased MP-psyllium hardness ratings (by 26%) and reduced MP-xanthan cohesiveness (by 45%). It prolonged oro-sensory exposure (by 22-31%), halved masseter and temporalis activity, and decreased salivation during MP-xanthan processing. Liking remained moderate (∼6/9). Both strategies softened boluses, but squeezed versions were harder or less cohesive than chewed. Oral processing strategies differentially modulate perception via sensory feedback, ensuring viscoelastic boluses for swallowing. Squeezing highlights tongue tactile sensitivity and compensatory prolonged exposure. These findings underscore texture-modified diets tailored to individual oro-sensory strategies. Rehabilitation for patients with chewing and swallowing disorders should be tailored to their specific oro-sensory processing needs.

Sand enteropathy describes pathophysiological conditions of the equine gastrointestinal tract due to the uptake and accumulation of sand. It is an increasingly recognized cause of gastrointestinal disease in arid geographic areas. Clinical signs can vary widely from colic, fever and inappetence to poor performance. Diagnosis based solely on clinical signs is nearly impossible. The current literature describes a variety of diagnostic aids, with radiographic imaging considered the gold standard. Therapeutic approaches aim at the evacuation of sand from the abdomen. This can be achieved by the administration of psyllium in connection with a laxative via nasogastric intubation. Several studies describe varying laxatives such as mineral oil or sodium-/magnesium sulphate. This narrative review includes 39 publications up to the year 2026. We aim to raise awareness among practicing veterinarians and highlight new research objectives to improve knowledge and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases related to sand accumulation.