Activated charcoal, utilized for over a century, is primarily recognized for its capacity to bind and eliminate toxins and various compounds, including gases, from the body. The activation process results in a highly developed pore structure with a substantial surface area that includes carbon moieties like carbonyl and hydroxyl groups. These moieties swiftly bind to a range of toxins in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract upon contact, minimizing their systemic absorption. Activated charcoal effectively binds to toxins without being absorbed itself, passing through the GI tract unchanged and without altering the microbiome.

Numerous clinical trials also suggest that activated charcoal might diminish intestinal gas by directly absorbing gas or gas-producing substrates. In a double-blind clinical trial utilizing lactulose as a substrate, activated charcoal not only reduced breath hydrogen levels but also alleviated bloating and abdominal cramps associated with excess gas. Its effectiveness extends to reducing gas presence when administered before abdominal ultrasounds, enhancing visualization that intestinal gases might otherwise obscure, and without causing side effects.

Benefits

• Provides activated charcoal at a dose associated with relieving the symptoms of excess gas, including bloating, pressure, pain, and feeling stuffed
• Activated charcoal binds to a variety of intestinal toxins and other compounds, safely preventing their absorption
• The softgel form is easy to swallow