Ingredient Information
Summary
Magnesium Stearate is a compound made from magnesium and stearic acid, commonly used in the production of supplements and medications. It acts as a flow agent, preventing ingredients from sticking to equipment during manufacturing, ensuring consistent quality and dosage. While it doesn’t provide direct health benefits, it plays a crucial role in the production process, making it easier to produce tablets and capsules. Those who take supplements or medications may indirectly benefit from its use, as it helps ensure the reliability and effectiveness of the products.
Key Facts
- Type: Excipient
- Natural source: Plant and animal fats
- Typical supplemental dose: Not applicable
- Used for: Manufacturing
- First discovered/isolated: 1920s
What Is Magnesium Stearate?
Magnesium Stearate, also known as octadecanoic acid magnesium salt, has the empirical formula Mg(C18H35O2)2 and is classified as a magnesium salt of stearic acid. It is commonly used as an additive in the food and pharmaceutical industries, often identified by the additive code E470b. Typically, it appears as a fine white powder. It is manufactured by reacting stearic acid with magnesium oxide. Magnesium Stearate acts as a lubricant, preventing ingredients from sticking to equipment during production. It is valued for its ability to improve the consistency and quality of tablets and capsules without affecting their efficacy.
How It Works In The Body
Magnesium Stearate is primarily used as a flow agent in supplements, helping to ensure that the ingredients mix well and are evenly distributed in each dose. It doesn’t have a direct effect on the body’s functions, as it is not absorbed in significant amounts. Instead, it passes through the digestive system without contributing to nutrient intake.
Safety & Interactions
- Magnesium Stearate is generally recognised as safe when used in small amounts as a food additive or supplement excipient.
- It may cause digestive upset in sensitive individuals when consumed in large quantities.
- There is no specific UK upper intake level for Magnesium Stearate, as it is typically used in minimal amounts.
- Individuals with allergies to stearic acid or magnesium should exercise caution.
Always consult your health practitioner before taking nutritional supplements, especially if you are taking medication or are under medical supervision. You should not take supplements as a substitute for a varied balanced diet or healthy lifestyle.
FAQs
What is magnesium stearate used for in supplements?
Magnesium stearate is commonly used as a flow agent in supplements, helping to ensure that the ingredients mix well and the tablets or capsules are consistent in quality.
Is magnesium stearate safe to consume?
Yes, magnesium stearate is generally recognised as safe for consumption in the small amounts used in supplements.
Does magnesium stearate affect nutrient absorption?
There is no conclusive evidence that magnesium stearate significantly affects nutrient absorption when used in standard supplement formulations.
References
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29090120/
Magnesium stearate exhibits a lack of genotoxic risk at current dietary exposures.
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32440810/
Impact of Magnesium Stearate on drug solubility, particularly affecting weak acidic drugs.
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39500792/
Magnesium Stearate Fatty Acid Composition, Lubrication Performance and Tablet Properties.
Our products that contain Magnesium Stearate
Where next?
Information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes or starting new supplements.