Digestive Interactions: Does Magnesium Stearate Affect Nutrient Absorption?

You probably know by now that most nootropics typically contain more than just the active nutrients. Something has to encapsulate them—hold them together—in a manner that not only makes them usable but also allows brands to produce them in large amounts.

These substances are known as flow agents. A few flow agents are quite harmless. However, some have more to them than meets the eye. And Magnesium Stearate (one of the most common excipients in nootropics), may be one of these.

What exactly are 'flow agents'?

The compounds that prevent ingredients from sticking to equipment during the blending and pressing stages are often called 'flow agents.'

That doesn't sound bad, right? And you might be thinking, "OK, these additives must be crucial for the manufacturing process, correct? You can't really make nootropics without them."

Well, not exactly.

Again, Magnesium Stearate is typically used to cut production costs. It’s a very common additive in nootropics (and other dietary supplements). Why? Simply put, it significantly reduces production costs (by a lot!).

Yet, there is no clear benefit for you. (!) In fact, there are concerns about Magnesium Stearate’s potential impact on nutrient absorption.*¹

Struggling with poor nutrient absorption? Magnesium Stearate may be to blame.*

Because it's hydrophilic ('water-loving'), some studies suggest that Magnesium Stearate may reduce the rate at which nutrients are dissolved in the gastrointestinal tract (GI).*²

So, the protective nature of Magnesium Stearate might make a nootropic (or multivitamin) far less effective if your body already struggles to break down the nutrients.*²

Add this to the already shockingly low absorption rate of many nootropics on the market. In some cases, less than 9% of ingested nutrients are actually absorbed.*^3,4

Did you know?

Nutrient absorption begins as soon as you ingest food or a nootropic supplement. The process starts in the mouth, where enzymes in saliva begin breaking down some of the carbohydrates. Once swallowed, the food travels down the esophagus and into the stomach, where gastric juices further break down proteins and fats.

Efficient nutrient absorption is important for maintaining the health and functionality of all three brains (head, heart, and gut).*

The most crucial phase of nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine (an essential part of your Gut [3rd Brain] due to its extensive network of over 500 million neurons and its role in overall health). The small intestine's lining is covered with tiny, finger-like projections called villi and microvilli (which increase the surface area for absorption).*

Here, nutrients such as amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals are absorbed into the bloodstream and transported throughout your body.

Now, this is the important part: Proper nutrient absorption is important for nourishing your body's three Intelligence Centers: the Head [1st Brain], the Heart [2nd Brain], and, of course, the Gut [3rd Brain].*

These centers are interconnected and work together to maintain overall health and well-being. When nutrient absorption is hindered, it can have far-reaching effects on all three Intelligence Centers.*

1) Head (Mental Intelligence Center)

• Your head-brain requires a constant supply of nutrients to function optimally. Nutrients like Glucose, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins are all important for cognitive functions, mood, and overall cognitive health.*
• Poor nutrient absorption can lead to deficiencies in essential neuro-nutrients (especially B vitamins, Iron, and Omega-3 Fatty Acids). The result? You may start feeling tired and unable to focus, and you may experience constant mood changes, tension, and even cognitive challenges.*

2) Heart (Emotional Intelligence Center)

• Your heart relies on nutrients such as Magnesium, Potassium, and essential fatty acids to maintain a healthy rhythm and function. Adequate nutrient supply supports cardiovascular health.*
• On the other hand, inadequate absorption of essential nutrients may lead to a number of heart health challenges. Plus, a lack of necessary nutrients can also impair your body's ability to manage cholesterol levels and inflammation.*

3) Gut (Physical Intelligence Center)

• Your gut is home to billions of microorganisms that aid digestion and nutrient absorption.
• It communicates with the head-brain through the gut-brain axis, influencing mood, immune function, and overall health. A well-nourished gut supports a robust immune system and efficient digestive processes.*
• However, poor nutrient absorption can disrupt the balance of gut microbiota, leading to digestive challenges. It can also weaken the gut barrier, increasing the risk of health challenges and inflammation.*

An absorption rate of only 9%? How is that possible?

It's easy, actually. Just take whatever amazing rainforest-extracted antioxidant miracle you want, coat each particle in a gummy hydrogenated oil, and then... eat it. :-)

Some hydrogenated fats, such as Magnesium Stearate, Stearic Acid, and Calcium Stearate, are made by hydrogenating cottonseed or palm oil.

You may be consuming more stearates than you think.

“Wait a minute. I thought these additives were deemed safe in small amounts, right?” It may be true, but the amounts can quickly add up.*

Consider this: Magnesium Stearate can take up to 5% of an average 500 mg capsule or tablet. That's about 25 milligrams. It's not unusual for someone to take up to 8 tablets or capsules of various nootropics and multivitamins a day. That's 250 a month—or 6,250 mg of this hydrogenated oil, nearly one-quarter ounce a month, or about 3 ounces a year.

Plus, many Americans already consume anywhere from 5 to 10 grams of stearates daily based on a standard Western diet.*

Look for a nootropic that offers only the most essential active nutrients.

Fillers, binders, and additives can sometimes interfere with the bioavailability of active nutrients. Plus, some fillers and additives (like Magnesium Stearate) may form barriers around the active nutrients, reducing their dissolution and absorption in the gut.*

At HCF®, we choose not to include Magnesium Stearate in our advanced nootropics, as per our 7 Advances® principles for Purity, Transparency & Safety you can trust.