Charcoal

Did you know charcoal can actually be good for you? 

Now before you go out and buy a bag a charcoal, take note; we are actually talking about activated charcoal supplements. Activated charcoal is a popular natural remedy for gas, bloating, and detoxification, but can also save a life as a first aid treatment for poisoning.

Although it certainly doesn’t replace emergency medical treatment, taking activated charcoal while waiting for an ambulance can significantly reduce harm from accidentally ingested poison. Activated charcoal binds with toxins in the stomach and helps them to be eliminated rather than being absorbed and causing harm.

Quite different from charcoal in a grill, supplements are treated to remove chemicals that would be dangerous if swallowed, and the charcoal is activated. The activation creates many more internal pores, increasing the surface area to trap substances in the gut by hundreds of times. It can trap drugs, many poisons, environmental toxins, and components of food.

However, there are some substances it doesn’t absorb including cyanide and metals such as iron and lithium. Do your own research and see the benefits of activated charcoal.

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to diagnose or fix any specific medical concern. It is meant to offer insight about potential health issues and risks, and to encourage you to research ways to become healthier. These statements have not been reviewed by a medical professional. Please check with your health care provider(s) prior to making any change that could potentially interact with medications or health conditions.