Activated charcoal is often used to treat poisoning or overdose and may also treat diarrhea and lower cholesterol.
Activated charcoal is thought to offer several other benefits, including
- less gas and flatulence
- lower cholesterol levels
- improved kidney function
Activated charcoal is very effective at adsorbing gases, which can help reduce flatulence.
Activated charcoal may promote kidney function by reducing the number of waste products that your kidneys have to filter.
Activated charcoal may help reduce unpleasant odors in individuals suffering from trimethylaminuria (TMAU), also known as fish odor syndrome. People with TMAU lack the enzyme needed to perform this conversion. This causes TMA to accumulate and enter urine, sweat, and breath, causing a foul, fishy odor. Studies show that activated charcoal’s porous surface may bind to small, odorous compounds like TMA, increasing their excretion.
Activated charcoal may help reduce cholesterol levels. Activated charcoal may bind to cholesterol and cholesterol-containing bile acids in your gut, preventing them from being absorbed.
