Activated charcoal is consumed in capsule or tablet form by many who believe it is a good detoxifier. It is thought that it absorbs many of the toxins in your digestive tract and stops them from being absorbed by your body. These toxins are believed to cling to the activated charcoal and thus make flushing out your system that much easier.
One of the more surprising wellness benefits of activated charcoal is that it can help lower cholesterol. Similar to how toxins cling to the activated charcoal, it binds to the ‘bad’ cholesterol. Essentially, activated charcoal binds the bile acid in the gut and prevents further absorption.
If you’ve had a little too much to drink, activated charcoal can be used to lower your blood alcohol levels. It is important to note that it does not reverse or prevent damage, but may assist in the relief of these symptoms.
Want brighter and whiter teeth? Activated charcoal has teeth-whitening properties, which explains why you see this superhero ingredient in today’s toothpastes. All the build-up on your teeth is removed by the activated charcoal, leaving you with a stunning set of pearly whites.
If you suffer from flatulence and excessive cramps and bloating, activated charcoal can help reduce these symptoms. You could experience less gas and bloating in your colon when you take activated charcoal after a meal.
Activated charcoal can help cleanse your gut by removing unhealthy toxins. However, long term use can lead to constipation. These side effects aren’t harmful but activated charcoal should be used sparingly and only when needed.