Guar gum is a gel-forming fiber from the seed of the guar plant (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba). It's used to thicken foods and is also used as a dietary supplement.
Guar gum helps normalize the moisture content of the stool, absorbing excess liquid in those with diarrhea, and softening the stool in those with constipation. It also might help decrease the amount of cholesterol and sugar that is absorbed in the gut.
People use guar gum for constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. It is also used for obesity, diabetes, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses.
Don't confuse guar gum with guarana or guarumo. These are not the same.
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