Having various applications in the industrial field, food industry and the pharmaceutical field, Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose has long been subjected to health and safety studies as it is said by some experts to be safe while some others say that it is toxic. It has been settled in several qualitative and quantitative studies initiated by recognized laboratory fields that Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose is safe for use, especially in the field of medicine where it is used in the manufacture or tablets and capsules. Manufacturers of health supplement products also use Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose in the production of tablets and capsules for its benefits. Although it is settled that the use of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose is safe in general, experts still advice manufacturers and users to avoid excessive doses of the compound as it may still pose certain health risks. There are no exact health benefits of using Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose in health supplement forms, as well as in medications, but they are still useful in effective administration of supplements and medicines.
What is Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose?
The compound Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose modified cellulose polymer which may be used as an alternative to gelatin and and gluten. It is also used in the field of medicine as a coating polymer. Since it is derived or formulated from vegetarian sources, Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose is believed to be generally safe. In a Food and Drug Association-initiated study, it was found that rat subjects did not manifest changes or signs and symptoms of irritation following introduction of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose. Although the same effect is not yet observed among human users, some experts claim that the manifestation will be similar among humans. This finding has led to the conclusion that Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose is safe and non-toxic, therefore, it can be used by humans.
What are the benefits and uses of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose?
Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose is beneficial in the manufacture of health supplement products. It is beneficial and advantageous for the following reasons:
- It is safe for vegetarians
Health supplement users who are under vegetarian diet may take supplements with Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose as they are vegetarian-based. Unlike gelatin-based supplements, Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose can be used by persons who are under dietary restrictions.
- It is gluten free
Patients who cannot tolerate gluten are generally now allowed to take health supplements. However, with the use of Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose, gluten sensitive individuals may now use health supplement products.
- It is non-irritating
Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose may also be used without associated irritation and other symptoms. However, in very high doses, it is found to cause growth retardation among animal subjects.
Conclusion
Manufacturers of health supplement products may use Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose as a good alternative. It is already established to be safe for use within recommended doses.
