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Magnesium stearate is a chemical used in the manufacture of many medical pills and capsules. While there are some concerns about its safety, it does not seem to pose any great danger.
Function
Magnesium stearate is included in the mixtures of capsules and tablets to prevent them from sticking to the machine during production, allowing the machines to run at faster speeds.
Biofilms
There is some concern that magnesium stearate forms biofilms in your digestive system, reducing the intake of nutrients. Conversely, according to a study done at Texas A&M University, stearic acid, a component of magnesium stearate, prevents the formation of biofilms.
Component Distribution
Including magnesium stearate in medicine may affect the uniformity of components, possibly with harmful effects. A study done at Purdue University suggests that, while it may affect some medicines, magnesium stearate has little to no effect on most tablets.
Immune System Suppresion
Searching the Internet, you may encounter the claim that magnesium stearate harms the immune system. This claim, however, is based on a study that has nothing to do with the effects of magnesium stearate as ingested in pills.
Powder Form
Exposure to large quantities of magnesium stearate powder (levels that would only be encountered in chemical production) can result in liver and skin problems. Magnesium stearate powder does also pose an explosion risk.
Source:
Wellness Reasources: An Irrelevant Stearate Study
Thatsfit.ca: Magnesium Stearate--Terrible Toxin or Innocuous Additive?
More Information:
Wellness Resources: Stearic Acid Helps Prevent Biofilm Formation
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