Warning as softgel capsule supplements linked to range of health concerns

Sly Saint

Senior Member (Voting Rights)
Softgel capsules — the smooth, easy-to-swallow form of many medications and supplements — are increasingly popular for delivering everything from vitamins to omega-3s. These capsules, made of a liquid centre inside a soft, flexible shell, offer convenience and effectiveness. But they’ve also come under growing scrutiny for one surprising reason: plasticisers.
To make the capsule shell soft and pliable, manufacturers often use plasticisers – chemicals called phthalates. While these help with flexibility and durability, they’re also linked to a range of health concerns.

Phthalates are known as endocrine disruptors – substances that can interfere with hormone systems. Studies, particularly in animals, suggest they can affect reproductive development, fertility and hormone balance.

Some human studies have found associations with birth defects, allergies in children and even heart disease. But scientists are still trying to fully understand the risks, and how much exposure is too much.

One difficulty in assessing phthalate safety is that there isn’t just one type. Phthalates are a large family of chemicals, each with different properties and risks. Not all are used in softgels, and many of the highest exposures come from other everyday sources such as vinyl flooring, shower curtains, perfumes and air fresheners.
Several phthalates are approved for pharmaceutical use, including diethyl phthalate (DEP), cellulose acetate phthalate, polyvinyl acetate phthalate and hypromellose phthalate.
DEP, the most common plasticiser in softgels, is considered to have relatively low toxicity and is used in small amounts. The others are typically used to help medicines survive stomach acid and are generally regarded as safe when used correctly.

However, some phthalates, such as dibutyl phthalate (DBP), have sparked more concern. DBP has been linked to reproductive and developmental issues and its use in medicines is now heavily restricted.

Others, like di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and diisodecyl phthalate, are more commonly used in medical devices such as IV bags and are also tightly regulated.

Research suggests long-term exposure to these chemicals may increase the risk of conditions like insulin resistance, inflammation and cardiovascular disease – especially in children and pregnant women.
 
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