When we delve into the world of dietary supplements, it's not just the active ingredients that matter; the inactive ones deserve your attention too. Binders, flow agents, and fillers play crucial roles in the manufacturing process of supplements - from increasing shelf life to speeding up the production process to decrease costs. Unfortunately, not all additives are made equal when it comes to your health. Some can pose potential health risks, which makes understanding their implications vital for making an informed choice when purchasing a supplement.
1. Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide is often used to give pills a clean, white appearance - think your typical painkiller from the pharmacy. However, recent studies and regulatory decisions have raised concerns about its safety. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reviewed titanium dioxide in 2021 and concluded it could be unsafe due to its potential genotoxic effects, meaning it could damage genetic information within a cell, causing mutations. This finding led to its ban across the European Union. Consumers are increasingly advised to avoid supplements containing this compound due to its questionable safety profile and potential accumulation in the body. (1, 2)
2. Talc
Talc, a mineral composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen, is used in the supplement industry as a filler and anti-caking agent. While it helps in preventing the ingredients from sticking together and facilitates smoother manufacturing, its safety has been under scrutiny. Some studies suggest a link between talc and increased risks of certain types of cancer, although the data is not definitive. The lack of consistent, reliable data led the EFSA in 2018 to declare that they could not assess the safety of talc and magnesium silicate, advising caution in their use. (3)
3. Artificial Colors
Artificial colors are added to supplements to make them more appealing to consumers. These colors, however, are not without controversy. Research has indicated that certain artificial colors, such as Red 40, may disrupt the gut microbiome and hormone production. Furthermore, a comprehensive toxicology review highlighted potential risks associated with these dyes, including cancer-causing activity and genotoxicity. Given these concerns, many health-conscious consumers and manufacturers opt to avoid artificial colors in supplements. (4, 5)
4. Artificial Preservatives
Preservatives extend the shelf life of supplements but at what cost? Studies have shown that some artificial preservatives can adversely affect health, including altering gut microbiota and contributing to weight gain. The scientific community continues to debate their safety, particularly concerning long-term health effects. As a result, more supplement manufacturers are hopefully choosing to exclude these from their formulations, prioritizing the consumer's health over extended shelf stability. (6, 7, 8)
5. Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin are used in supplements to enhance taste without adding the calories associated with sugar. However, the safety and health benefits of artificial sweeteners have been questioned. Recent research indicates these sweeteners could influence glucose absorption within the intestinal tract and affect the secretion of insulin and incretins in both humans and animals. Additionally, artificial sweeteners may change the gut microbiota composition, potentially leading to poorer glycemic control. These findings contribute to the ongoing debate regarding their appropriateness in health-oriented products. (9, 10)
6. Artificial Flavors
Artificial flavors are engineered to mimic natural tastes, enhancing the sensory appeal of supplements. However, the use of these synthetic flavors is increasingly being scrutinized due to potential health risks. Research suggests that some artificial flavors could contribute to negative health effects similar to those posed by artificial preservatives, such as metabolic disorders and disruptions in gut health. Given these concerns, many consumers now prefer supplements that use natural flavors, aligning with a broader shift towards cleaner, more natural ingredients. (11)
7. Magnesium Stearate
Magnesium stearate is a commonly used flow agent in supplements that prevents ingredients from sticking to manufacturing equipment. While generally considered safe in small quantities, some studies suggest that excessive use could potentially affect the bioavailability of nutrients and medications by forming a barrier between them and the body's digestive enzymes. However, the consensus in the scientific community is that in the amounts typically used in supplements, magnesium stearate does not pose significant health risks. (12)
8. Silicon Dioxide
Also known as silica, silicon dioxide is another anti-caking agent that helps prevent clumping in powdered supplements. While generally recognized as safe, recent research highlights potential concerns when silicon dioxide is used in the form of nanoparticles.
Recent research has demonstrated that exposure to silica nanoparticles significantly compromises nutrient absorption, weakens intestinal barriers, alters cellular functions potentially leading to inflammation, and triggers increased inflammatory responses in the gut. (13)
Additionally, a study suggests that food-grade silicon dioxide (fg-SiO2) may impair the intestinal immune response, exacerbating food sensitivities by inhibiting oral tolerance and worsening gluten-induced immunopathology in certain mouse models. This underscores the potential health risks associated with chronic exposure to silicon dioxide nanoparticles in food additives. (14)
9. Carrageenan
Derived from red seaweed, carrageenan is used in supplements to thicken or stabilize formulas. While it is natural, its use in food and supplements has been controversial. Some studies have linked carrageenan to gastrointestinal inflammation and higher rates of intestinal lesions in laboratory animals. This has led to debates about its safety, especially for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or inflammatory bowel diseases. (15)
10. Dicalcium Phosphate
Dicalcium phosphate is used as a binder in tablets and capsules, helping to ensure consistency and stability in dosage. It is generally recognized as safe when used within prescribed limits. However, concerns have been raised about its use in high doses, particularly regarding potential risks to kidney function and the balance of other essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus in the body. (16, 17)
11. Hydrogenated Oils
Hydrogenated oils are used in supplement production to enhance texture and shelf life, yet they include trans fats linked to numerous health issues. Research clearly shows that trans fats contribute to increased levels of inflammation and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and a range of other serious conditions (18).
12. Shellac
Shellac is a resin secreted by the lac bug and is used as a coating agent in supplements to enhance their appearance and protect ingredients from moisture. While shellac is natural, its use is problematic for vegans and those who prefer plant-based products. Additionally, concerns about its possible allergy-provoking effects and the sustainability of its production have led some manufacturers to seek alternative coating options. (19, 20)
13. Pharmaceutical Glaze
Pharmaceutical glaze contains shellac and potentially other additives like titanium dioxide. The lack of transparency in labeling pharmaceutical glaze compositions can be concerning for consumers seeking clean-label supplements. With 20-57% shellac content, this ingredient poses similar issues as shellac alone, making it less desirable for those committed to vegan or clean-label products. (21)
Knowing the potential negative effect of additives, at NULLURE we offer our customers clean formulas free of the MEAN 13. Our products are free of harmful binders, fillers, bulking and flow agents that may harm your microbiome, endocrine and immune systems. We produce in small batches and have made the conscious decision to sometimes sacrifice the aesthetics of our capsules if it means removing harmful additives. This is why you may notice that the contents of the capsules may slightly change colour or texture overtime.