Cinnamon, Chromium & Biotin

Carboxymethylcellulose was the second emulsifier (with polysorbate 80) in Chassaing et al. 2015 (Nature, PMID 25731162), which showed mucus-barrier thinning, a microbiota shift toward pro-inflammatory species, low-grade inflammation, and metabolic syndrome in mice. Chassaing 2022 (Gastroenterology, PMID 34774538) tested CMC directly in a randomized controlled human feeding trial and found reduced microbial diversity and bacterial encroachment into the normally sterile mucus layer in a susceptible subset of participants. EFSA's 2018 re-evaluation could not establish a safe level due to data gaps. For a purely textural excipient, the gut-barrier risk profile is unfavorable when safer thickeners are widely available.

Spikes blood sugar faster than table sugar (glycemic index 85–105). Research links it to gut bacteria changes that may promote intestinal inflammation (Nickerson et al. 2015). Used as a cheap filler — adds nothing beneficial.

A salt of stearic acid used as a lubricant in tablet and capsule production

Fine silica powder used to prevent clumping

Common calcium salt used as a buffering agent, filler, or mineral fortification in supplements

Sweet-tasting liquid used in soft capsules and liquids

Plant-derived cellulose used as a binder and filler in supplements

Plant-derived cellulose used as a binder and filler in supplements