Misinformation about the use of silicon dioxide and maltodextrin in Holland & Barrett’s Shilajit capsules. 

Social media users are now raising concerns about the ingredients used in Holland & Barrett Shilajit Capsules. The claim on social media platforms suggests that silicon dioxide and maltodextrin used in the product are the reason for many health issues, especially inflammation in the gut.

However, Fact Crescendo found the claim to be misleading. Studies have revealed that both the ingredients are safe and do not cause serious health issues when consumed within the established limits. 

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Silicon Dioxide: 

Silicon dioxide (E 551) is a common food and drug additive majorly used as an anti-caking agent to prevent products from clumping. A recent study on mice found that regular intake of silicon dioxide can affect the immune system. It reduces the body’s ability to tolerate food and causes inflammation in the intestines. This additive can lead to celiac disease. 

According to the National Institute of Health, it is poorly absorbed by the body when consumed. Most of the silicon dioxide passes through the body without causing harm. Scientific evaluations have found no clear evidence of harmful effects from eating silicon dioxide at the amounts people normally consume from food and additives. In animal studies, even very high doses did not cause toxic effects, reproductive problems, or cancer, and there was no sign of genotoxicity. However, researchers also noted that the available data have limitations and that long-term studies are missing.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reviewed the safety of silicon dioxide. After carefully studying exposure levels, scientific data, and previous safety studies, EFSA concluded that silicon dioxide does not pose a safety risk to people of any age group when used in foods at the approved levels. The review also looked specifically at infants below 16 weeks of age and found that the use of silicon dioxide in infant foods is also safe at current exposure levels.

Maltodextrin: 

According to the International Journal of Pharmacy and Biological Sciences review, maltodextrin is considered a safe and non-toxic excipient widely used in pharmaceutical formulations. It does not interfere with the activity of drugs. It is used in pharmaceutical companies because of its free-flowing nature, water solubility, film-forming ability, and heat stability. It is also considered as a reliable and harmless ingredient.

According to another report, in pharmaceutical companies maltodextrins are used in chewable tablets, as binders in tablet making, as coating materials, and as stabilizers in certain drug systems. It is also used to improve the texture, stability and quality of medicines.

However, if too much maltodextrin is consumed, it may lead to high blood sugar, which can result in high cholesterol, weight gain, and type-2 diabetes. Research also suggests it may disturb gut bacteria by reducing good bacteria and helping harmful ones grow.

From the above facts it is clear that drugs containing Maltodextrin are safe when consumed within limits and as prescribed by physicians.

Conclusion:

Fact Crescendo found the claim to be misleading. It is true that Holland & Barrett’s Shilajit capsules contain Silicon Dioxide and Maltodextrin. Studies have revealed that both the ingredients are safe and do not cause serious health issues when consumed within the established limits.