The Dangers of E-Numbers in Your Supplements

This blog might be banned from social media as it is against the wellness industry's general production and profits when I now want to speak up about the dangers of E-Numbers in Your SupplementsNot all wellness companies even understand this or might want to understand this but I will tell you, this will be one of the biggest changes that needs to and will happen over the next five years. This is a long blog as it needs to be explained in detail. For 10 years I was a consumer of capsules that made me sicker and for several reasons. Here is the background for why I even write this long and very important blog:

Background:

I sadly decided to do a bariatric surgery in 2011. It went all wrong and I had to search for a functional medicine approach as the public healthcare in Sweden could not help me. The supplementation started right after my surgery as my doctor prescribed a multivitamin tablet with Pyridoxine and Folic acid, a tablet with B12 (Cyanocobalamin), and Calcium. After only one year I was completely depleted. The poisonous ingredients together with fillers in them and poor absorption left me in a really bad situation in 2013. I was advised to stop taking Cyanocobalamin and changed it for another chewable supplement but I realized it was full of e-numbers so I never took it. Bought a capsule with Methylcobalamin.

With research, I got to know that neither of the supplements my surgery prescribed was bioavailable so I switched again. Starting to buy the big brands and was on many supplements every day. My stomach started screaming and I did not relate it at all to the supplements, and not to the capsules holding the supplements. I did not know about the fillers in them either and how it affects absorption. Time went by and I slowly declined in my health. Many ambulance trips as I got severe cramps and seizures. I got a stroke and little did I know about B-vitamin deficiency when it comes to clinical diagnosis. Did you know that b12 deficiency can lead to Stroke?

Anyway, In 2021 I was anemic, close call to kidney and liver failure, and without energy. I felt shut off totally and it felt like I had a depression close to suicide but at the same time wanted to live and thrive. Like I was deprived of my being at all levels. Shaking to the bone, felt severely stressed and I was isolated from others as the energy did not allow me anything at that point. I had a grey/green look on my face and my liver and kidneys gave me unbearable back pain.

I finally got to see Dr. Bob Rakowski from Houston Natural Medicine Center in Houston, Texas USA, who told me in the blink of an eye what was wrong with me. This was an eye-opener for sure. The bitter truth that my supplements were not absorbed was confirmed of course. Dr. Bob said I probably only pooped out the supplement to very little or no use. He put me on a stress protocol with 8 different high-quality supplements and I had to open the capsules and take the powders inside under my tongue with some Coconut oil. I took the supplements every waking hour for 14 days. The first four days I got sicker and sicker. I contacted Dr. Bob who confirmed it was perfectly fine and that the protocol was working. I was in a huge detox process and the blood flow to the liver and kidneys started to open up. The next 10 days completely changed my life for the better. My tinnitus was almost gone, no stomach cramps, and the migraine of 9 months after the diagnosis of empty sella syndrome was gone. My hot fashes disappeared and I slept my first whole night in 10 years. It felt like a miracle but what happened was that I finally got nutrients into my system. My body was chronically stressed due to my decision to do the chronic starvation with the bariatric surgery.

Do not even think for a minute that this is only a story for bariatric surgery patients. The entire world is under stress with years of a pandemic, screens, wars, bad news, workload, family issues, and life itself running around doing things. Add poor choices of food and drinks and you have the most lethal cocktail on the planet that depletes you. Stress is a killer and one of the worst stressors is when you carry a feeling that you are not good enough. Stress makes it more difficult to absorb nutrients from food and supplements. So, add bad supplements to this in tablets, gummies, and capsules, it can make it worse for you. This is a background for my blog and it is my passion to share what I learned. I can't shut up about this. Imagine if you knew me, I know this and keep it from you, you get sick and then you come to understand I never told you what I knew. That would be an awful egoistic crime.

Camilla Hiller, depleted from a gastric bypass

So, therefore, this blog needs to get out there and make sure to inform all of us that are ready for pure and clean self-care.

In the vast world of food and supplements, E-numbers are often hailed as essential for maintaining texture, extending shelf life, and enhancing the appearance of products. But beware—not all E-numbers are not as harmless as they seem. Some particularly cellulose-based additives, can pose serious health risks, especially when consumed regularly or in large amounts. This post dives into the potential dangers behind these common additives, their widespread use, and what you need to know about their safety.

The dangerous reality behind Cellulose-Based E-Numbers in supplements

Cellulose, a natural component of plant cell walls, is frequently modified for use in the food and supplement industry. These modified forms are assigned E-numbers such as:

• E 460: Microcrystalline cellulose, cellulose powder

• E 461: Methylcellulose

• E 462: Ethylcellulose

• E 463: Hydroxypropylcellulose

• E 464: Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose

• E 465: Methyl ethyl cellulose

• E 466: Carboxymethylcellulose, cellulose gum, sodium carboxymethylcellulose

• E 468: Crosslinked sodium carboxymethylcellulose

• E 469: Enzymatically hydrolyzed carboxymethylcellulose, enzymatically hydrolyzed cellulose gum

These additives/ E-numbers are ubiquitous in processed foods and dietary supplements, serving as thickening agents, stabilizers, and emulsifiers. But the question remains—at what cost to your health? Is it really that dangerous? Continue reading and ask yourself how much you know about the production in the wellness industry. Ask yourself, do I read the labels on supplements? Now might be a good time to start.

Supplements in capsules and tablets

The Common Culprits in Your Food and Supplements

Cellulose-based E-numbers infiltrate a wide range of products:

• Processed Foods: Found in sauces, dressings, baked goods, and dairy products, these additives help maintain texture and consistency. They’re especially prevalent in low-fat items, where they mimic the mouthfeel of fats.

• Supplements: In the supplement industry, these E-numbers are widely used as fillers, binders, and disintegrants in tablets and capsules, often leading to a higher concentration of these substances.

The Hidden Health Risks You Need to Know about supplements ingredints

While cellulose itself is natural, its modified forms can trigger a range of side effects:

• Digestive Issues: Additives like E 466 and E 469 are linked to gastrointestinal problems, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea. This is particularly concerning in supplements, where these substances are often highly concentrated.

• Nutrient Absorption: E 461 (Methylcellulose) may interfere with nutrient absorption in the digestive tract, potentially leading to long-term deficiencies.

• Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, itching, or respiratory issues, in response to these additives.

• Potential Carcinogenic Effects: There are growing concerns about the long-term consumption of these additives and their possible links to cancer. For instance, studies have raised red flags about carboxymethylcellulose (E 466), which has been associated with colitis and metabolic syndrome in animal models.

A Widespread Issue in Supplements

The supplement industry is flooded with cellulose-based E-numbers. They appear in everything from vitamins to protein powders and herbal supplements. Given the concentrated nature of these products, the potential for adverse side effects is significantly heightened, especially for those who consume multiple supplements daily.

What Governments and Experts Are Saying

The safety of these E-numbers varies across regions:

• USA: The FDA generally recognizes these cellulose derivatives as safe (GRAS), but ongoing research suggests caution is warranted regarding their long-term effects.

• Canada: Health Canada also deems these additives safe but advises moderation in their consumption.

• UK and EU: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) permits the use of these additives but regularly reviews their safety in light of emerging research.

The question is, how much do you and I trust governments? Who is the government "sleeping with"? How many cases can you show humanity that governments stand up for humanity rather than the industry in this case?

Detailed Explanation of E-Numbers and Their Impact on Health

The following E-numbers represent various forms of cellulose derivatives used as food additives. These additives are widely used to modify the texture, stability, and shelf life of food products, as well as in pharmaceutical formulations. Below is a detailed explanation of each, including how they are produced and the potential complications and side effects associated with their consumption.

1. E 460: Microcrystalline Cellulose, Cellulose Powder

• What It Is: E 460 refers to cellulose in its natural or refined form, used as microcrystalline cellulose or cellulose powder. These substances are derived from the structural component of plant cell walls.

• How It’s Produced: Microcrystalline cellulose is produced by partially hydrolyzing cellulose with mineral acids, which breaks down the cellulose into smaller, crystalline fragments. Cellulose powder is produced by mechanically grinding cellulose into a fine powder.

• Uses: It is commonly used as a texturizer, anti-caking agent, and bulking agent in processed foods, and as a filler in dietary supplements.

• Complications and Side Effects: While cellulose is generally considered safe and is not absorbed by the body, excessive intake can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation. Because it is a bulking agent, it can affect nutrient absorption, potentially leading to deficiencies if consumed in large quantities.

  
  

2. E 461: Methylcellulose

• What It Is: Methylcellulose is a chemically modified form of cellulose where some hydroxyl groups are replaced with methoxy groups.

• How It’s Produced: Methylcellulose is synthesized by treating cellulose with methyl chloride in an alkaline environment, which substitutes hydroxyl groups with methoxy groups, making the compound water-soluble.

• Uses: It is used as a thickener, emulsifier, and gelling agent in foods and also as a laxative in pharmaceuticals.

• Complications and Side Effects: Methylcellulose is not digestible and can absorb large amounts of water, which may cause digestive issues such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. In supplement form, it can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, leading to potential deficiencies.

  
  

3. E 462: Ethylcellulose

• What It Is: Ethylcellulose is a cellulose derivative where ethyl groups replace some hydroxyl groups in the cellulose structure.

• How It’s Produced: It is produced by reacting cellulose with ethyl chloride in the presence of an alkali, which introduces ethyl groups into the cellulose structure, making it more hydrophobic.

• Uses: Ethylcellulose is used as a film-former in food coatings, a thickener, and as a controlled-release agent in pharmaceuticals.

• Complications and Side Effects: Ethylcellulose is generally non-toxic and non-allergenic, but since it is not digestible, excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal issues like constipation and bloating. Its hydrophobic nature can also slow down the digestion of foods, potentially leading to delayed nutrient absorption.

  
  

4. E 463: Hydroxypropylcellulose

• What It Is: Hydroxypropylcellulose is a cellulose derivative where hydroxypropyl groups are added to the cellulose structure.

• How It’s Produced: This compound is produced by reacting cellulose with propylene oxide under alkaline conditions, which attaches hydroxypropyl groups to the cellulose molecule, enhancing its solubility and flexibility.

• Uses: It is commonly used as a thickener, film-former, and stabilizer in food products and pharmaceuticals.

• Complications and Side Effects: Hydroxypropylcellulose is generally considered safe but may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort when consumed in large quantities. It is not fully digested by the body, which can lead to similar issues as other cellulose derivatives, such as bloating and gas.

  
  

5. E 464: Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose

• What It Is: Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) is a mixed ether of cellulose that contains both hydroxypropyl and methyl groups.

• How It’s Produced: HPMC is synthesized by treating cellulose with a mixture of methyl chloride and propylene oxide under alkaline conditions, which introduces both methyl and hydroxypropyl groups.

• Uses: It is widely used in gluten-free and low-fat foods as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It is also used in the pharmaceutical industry for controlled-release formulations.

• Complications and Side Effects: Like other cellulose derivatives, HPMC is not digestible and can cause digestive issues, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea. In high doses, it may affect the gut flora and impair nutrient absorption, particularly in those who consume multiple products containing HPMC.

  
  

6. E 465: Methyl Ethyl Cellulose

• What It Is: Methyl ethyl cellulose is another derivative of cellulose where the hydroxyl groups are replaced with both methyl and ethyl groups.

• How It’s Produced: This compound is made by reacting cellulose with a combination of methyl chloride and ethyl chloride in an alkaline environment.

• Uses: It serves as a thickener, binder, and film-former in food products and pharmaceuticals.

• Complications and Side Effects: Similar to other cellulose derivatives, methyl ethyl cellulose is not digestible and may lead to gastrointestinal issues like bloating and constipation when consumed in excess. There is also potential for it to interfere with the absorption of nutrients and medications.

  
  

7. E 466: Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), Cellulose Gum, Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose

• What It Is: Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is a water-soluble cellulose derivative where carboxymethyl groups are attached to the cellulose backbone.

• How It’s Produced: CMC is produced by reacting cellulose with chloroacetic acid in an alkaline environment, which adds carboxymethyl groups to the cellulose molecule, making it highly water-absorbent.

• Uses: CMC is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in a wide variety of food products, including ice cream, sauces, and baked goods. It is also used in pharmaceuticals as a binder and in personal care products like toothpaste.

• Complications and Side Effects: CMC can cause digestive issues such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort, especially when consumed in large amounts. Some studies suggest that it may disrupt the gut microbiome and contribute to inflammatory bowel conditions. There is also ongoing research into its potential role in promoting obesity and metabolic syndrome.

  
  

8. E 468: Crosslinked Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose

• What It Is: This is a crosslinked form of carboxymethylcellulose, designed to enhance its water-absorption properties and its ability to swell in aqueous environments.

• How It’s Produced: Crosslinked sodium carboxymethylcellulose is created by chemically crosslinking CMC with agents like epoxides or polycarboxylic acids, forming a network structure that can absorb large amounts of water.

• Uses: It is primarily used in pharmaceuticals, particularly in tablet formulations as a super disintegrant, which helps tablets break down quickly in the digestive tract.

• Complications and Side Effects: While crosslinked CMC is effective in its intended uses, it may cause digestive issues similar to those of regular CMC, including bloating, gas, and potential interference with nutrient absorption. The crosslinked nature may also pose additional challenges in digestion and could potentially lead to more severe gastrointestinal discomfort.

  
  

9. E 469: Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Carboxymethylcellulose, Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Cellulose Gum

• What It Is: E 469 is a modified form of carboxymethylcellulose that has been partially broken down by enzymes, making it more soluble and easier to incorporate into food products.

• How It’s Produced: Enzymatically hydrolyzed CMC is produced by treating CMC with specific enzymes that break down some of the cellulose chains into shorter, more soluble segments.

• Uses: It is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in foods, offering improved solubility and functionality compared to regular CMC. It is also used in dietary supplements.

• Complications and Side Effects: Although E 469 is more easily digestible than regular CMC, it can still cause gastrointestinal discomfort, particularly when consumed in large amounts. Potential side effects include bloating, diarrhea, and possible disruption of the gut microbiome.

  
  
  
  

Understanding the Side Effects of Supplement Capsule Ingredients on Mental Health Conditions

Common Ingredients in Supplement Capsules:

• Gelatin: A common ingredient in capsules derived from animal collagen. While generally safe, it can be problematic for people with certain dietary restrictions, but it doesn’t directly affect mental health.

• Magnesium Stearate: Often used as a flow agent, it can sometimes cause digestive upset in sensitive individuals. Concerns have been raised about its potential to inhibit the absorption of nutrients, though more research is needed.

• Artificial Colorants (e.g., E102 - Tartrazine, E129 - Allura Red): These are used to color capsules and can have adverse effects, particularly in individuals with ADHD and other mental health issues. Studies have linked artificial colors to increased hyperactivity and behavioral issues.

• Preservatives (e.g., Parabens, Sorbates): While used to prevent spoilage, these can cause allergic reactions or exacerbate symptoms in people with sensitivities.

Impact on Individuals with Autism, Asperger's, ADD/ADHD, and Other Mental Health

Conditions:

1. Artificial Colorants and Hyperactivity:

   • Research: Studies have shown a significant correlation between the consumption of artificial colorants and increased hyperactivity in children, particularly those diagnosed with ADHD. A well-known study published in The Lancet found that artificial food colors and preservatives exacerbate hyperactive behavior in children source.

   • Impact: Individuals with ADHD or autism may experience worsened symptoms, such as increased impulsivity, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating.

2. Magnesium Stearate:

   • Research: While magnesium stearate is generally regarded as safe, there are concerns that it might interfere with the absorption of nutrients in the gut, which can be particularly concerning for individuals with conditions that already involve nutritional deficiencies.

   • Impact: For individuals with autism or ADHD, proper nutrient absorption is crucial, and any disruption could potentially worsen behavioral symptoms or cognitive function.

3. Gelatin Capsules:

   • Research: Gelatin itself does not generally pose mental health risks, but for individuals with sensory processing issues (common in autism and related conditions), the texture or origin of gelatin might cause discomfort or aversion.

   • Impact: This discomfort might lead to difficulties in taking medication or supplements, which could result in a failure to receive necessary treatment.

4. Preservatives:

   • Research: Some preservatives, like parabens, have been scrutinized for their potential endocrine-disrupting effects, though direct links to mental health issues are not well established but I can take a wild guess.

   • Impact: Individuals with autism or ADHD may have heightened sensitivity to chemicals, making them more likely to experience adverse reactions such as irritability or allergic responses.

     
     

Recent Research Links:

1. Artificial Food Additives and ADHD:

   • Study: "The impact of a double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge trial on the behavior of children with ADHD."

   • Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH)

   • Summary: This study highlights the role of artificial food additives, particularly colorants, in exacerbating hyperactive behavior in children with ADHD.

2. Nutrient Absorption and Magnesium Stearate:

   • Study: "Magnesium stearate's effect on nutrient absorption."

   • Source: PubMed Central

   • Summary: This article discusses concerns about magnesium stearate potentially inhibiting nutrient absorption, which can be particularly problematic for individuals with nutrient-sensitive conditions.

3. Sensory Processing and Capsule Ingredients:

   • Study: "Sensory sensitivities in autism spectrum disorders: A qualitative analysis."

   • Source: PubMed

   • Summary: The study examines the impact of sensory processing issues in individuals with autism, highlighting how certain textures and tastes, such as those in gelatin capsules, can lead to aversions and difficulties in medication adherence.

These sources provide a robust understanding of how common supplement capsule ingredients can affect individuals with mental health conditions like autism, Asperger’s, ADD/ADHD, and others. It’s important for individuals with these conditions, or caregivers, to be mindful of these potential side effects.

Conclusion

Cellulose-based E-numbers are widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries for their functional properties, but they are not without potential risks. While generally considered safe for consumption in regulated amounts, excessive intake can lead to various gastrointestinal issues and might interfere with nutrient absorption. Individuals with sensitive digestive systems or those consuming large amounts of processed foods and supplements containing these additives should be aware of the potential side effects.

Further research is ongoing to fully understand the long-term health impacts of these additives, particularly in relation to the gut microbiome and metabolic health. It is always advisable to read labels carefully and consult healthcare professionals if you experience any adverse effects from consuming products containing these E-numbers.

Open your supplement capsules

PRO - TIP TO AVOID THESE E-NUMBERS IN CAPSULES: Empty the capsules and take the powder under your tongue or put the powders in water and drink it. It does not taste well all the time but it is not candy either, it is a supplement. Stay away from supplements with aromas. Make sure the flavors are natural. Gummies are not a good option and we will cover that in another blog. READ the INGREDIENTS in the SUPPLEMENTS you are about to buy and learn more about how fillers affects you.

Here you can find some studies and the fact that they are looking into this is of course a sign in itself.

• Martino, JV. The Role of Carrageenan and Carboxymethylcellulose in the Development of Intestinal Inflammation  Front Pediatr. 2017; 5: 96.

• Chassaing, B., Koren, O., Goodrich, J. et al. Dietary emulsifiers impact the mouse gut microbiota promoting colitis and metabolic syndrome. Nature 519, 92–96 (2015). Nature.

• Rinninella E et al. Food Additives, Gut Microbiota, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Hidden Track. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Nov 27;17(23):8816.

• Naimi S et al. Direct impact of commonly used dietary emulsifiers on human gut microbiota. Microbiome. 2021 Mar 22;9(1):66.

• Wellens J, et al. The role of carboxymethylcellulose in health and disease: is the plot thickening? Gastroenterology. 2022 Jan 10:S0016-5085(22)00015-4. Online ahead of print.

• Holder MK et al., Dietary emulsifiers consumption alters anxiety-like and social-related behaviors in mice in a sex-dependent manner

•  Sci Rep 17;9(1):172 (2019).

• Chassaing B et al. Dietary emulsifiers directly alter human microbiota composition and gene expression ex vivo potentiating intestinal inflammation. Gut. 2017 66(8):1414-1427.

• Viennois E et al., Dietary Emulsifier-Induced Low-Grade Inflammation Promotes Colon Carcinogenesis. Cancer Res. 2017 Jan 1;77(1):27-40. 

• Healy, Melissa (2015-02-25). “Is common food additive to blame for rising rates of bowel disease?”. Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on 2017-07-12.  

Six studies to read: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=impact+of+commonly+used+dietary+emulsifiers+on+human+gut+microbiota

PS: Understand that ALL studies always have the same text and researchers must say that there is not enough research on the topic. Just saying.....

So, what is your reflection on all of this on the dangers in E-Numbers in all your Supplements?

With love and care of pure and clean products

Camilla Hiller