So we are off to a great start to the new year, right? We have our exercise routine going, eating right, wearing our fitness gadgets, and ready to take that new multi vitamin, until we look at the other ingredients. That happened to me. I just had to look, and low and behold, I thought I would check out what these things were on the internet. Here is what I found.

Cellulose Gel – is usually made from nontoxic wood pulp or cotton. It is used to thicken a product without adding any calories or fat. It is fibrous, which is why it appears in so many high-fiber “healthy” snacks.

Matodextrin – is an artificial sugar made from corn starch. Could cause an allergic reaction.

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose – food additive for thickening and emulsifying liquids.

Magnesium Sterate – purpose is to act as a lubricant to prevent the tablet contents from sticking to the machinery that processes them. This additive takes the pill longer to dissolve due to the film it forms on the tablet ingredients. Your digestive enzymes have to break down this coating before it can access the nutrients it envelops. This may result in the nutrients not dissolving appropriately.

Silcon Dioxide – used to prevent ingredients from sticking together. It has a unique capacity to absorb moisture. It is important in ensuring the product meets the claims listed on the label.

Polyethylene Glycol – Poly means many. On it’s own, ethylene glycol is used in automotive antifreeze, brake fluid, and toilet bowl cleaner. I hope this it on a low grade level. It’s medical use is for patients suffering from constipation. Glycerol, a byproduct of bio-diesel production, serves as a humectant, a solvent, a filler in commercially prepared low-fat baked goods, and it may help preserve foods. That is major preserving.

So the hunt is on for a better vitamin. You may want to take a closer look at what the label lists on your bottles. I think in the time being, I will just go out to my front lawn and eat the bark off the tree.

Lisa B