Why are Additives Bad?
Additives generally have little or no nutritive value. The objective of taking a dietary supplement is for the herbs or nutrients to break down and be utilized by our bodies. Additives do not generally facilitate this process. In fact, some individuals feel that additives can actually hinder this process. The best nutritional supplements promote the quick uptake by the body of the nutrients they possess. They do this by being in a form that the body can easily assimilate so it can access the herb or nutrient and expose it to processes that will ultimately lead to the nutrient taking part in cellular metabolism. While some people are sensitive and may react allergically to certain additives, the most unfortunate fact regarding additives is that some additives have been shown in preliminary in vitro studies to possess possible harmful effects.
What are Additives?
Additives are binders, which are glue-like substances used to form powdered nutrients into tablets, flowing agents and lubricants, which are used to assist the flow of nutrients through the manufacturing process, fillers, which are additives possessing a “fluffy” quality that make capsules look uniformly full, as well as coloring agents, coatings and glazes.
Additives generally have little or no nutritive value
The objective of taking a dietary supplement is for the herbs or nutrients to break down and be utilized by our bodies. Additives do not generally facilitate this process. In fact, some individuals feel that additives can actually hinder this process. The best nutritional supplements promote the quick uptake by the body of the nutrients they possess. They do this by being in a form that the body can easily assimilate so it can access the herb or nutrient and expose it to processes that will ultimately lead to the nutrient taking part in cellular metabolism. While some people are sensitive and may react allergically to certain additives, the most unfortunate fact regarding additives is that some additives have been shown in preliminary in vitro studies to possess possible harmful effects.
Some of the Common Additives and Excipients Used in Manufacturing are as Follows:
Stearic Acid A binder typically used in the manufacturing of tablets. This ingredient is not typically used in the manufacturing of capsules.
Magnesium Stearate A lubricant typically used in the manufacturing of tablets and capsules. There is research indicating that stearic acid and magnesium stearate both possess “T-Cell Inhibiting” characteristics and other adverse effects. Studies available upon request. Please note that some companies state “vegetable lubricant” on their labels; this IS magnesium stearate.
Silicon Dioxide A flowing agent typically used in the manufacturing of tablets and capsules.
Croscarmellose Sodium A disintegrating agent typically used in the manufacturing of tablets so that they effectively break down in the stomach. Disintegration tests are usually performed in the laboratory to verify that the tablets dissolve within thirty minutes in water.
Microcrystalline Cellulose A cellulose-based filler typically used in the manufacturing of tablets and capsules. This material is typically bleached and refined.Rice Flour A filler typically used in the manufacturing of capsules. This material is typically bleached and refined. It is most often used because it is much cheaper than brown rice flour and most companies want a filler that is white.