Activated Charcoal 260 mg
Swanson
Activated Charcoal 260 mg
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(4741 ratings)
Activated Charcoal 520 mg
Score 88.0
An extremely popular and cost-effective activated charcoal product, offering reliable digestive relief and gut detox at a great price, though its source is unspecified.
Quantity: 120 Capsule(s)Servings size: 2 Capsule(s) (60 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Digestive Health
Detoxification
leaderboard Score 88.0
An extremely popular and cost-effective activated charcoal product, offering reliable digestive relief and gut detox at a great price, though its source is unspecified.
insights Analysis
Swanson Activated Charcoal 260 mg is formulated to support digestive health and aid in gut detoxification, delivering 520mg of activated charcoal per serving. Activated charcoal is highly effective at adsorbing intestinal gas and various toxins, thereby providing relief from bloating, indigestion, and facilitating their removal from the body. Nutritionists confirm activated charcoal's role in gastrointestinal binding for acute issues. The product's immense popularity and overwhelming number of positive online reviews indicate its proven reliability and effectiveness among a large user base, establishing it as a go-to option for symptomatic relief.
- Very affordable at $0.11 per serving, offering excellent value for a standard dosage.
- Boasts an exceptionally high review count (4298), indicating widespread positive customer experiences and trust in the product.
- Provides a reliable 520mg dosage of activated charcoal per serving, effective for common digestive discomforts.
- Comes from Swanson, a reputable brand known for affordable and effective supplements.
- The specific source of the activated charcoal (e.g., coconut, wood) is not explicitly stated in the ingredient list, which some consumers prefer for purity assurance.
- The dosage of 520mg per serving is on the lower side compared to some higher-dose alternatives that offer 1000mg+ for similar prices.
- Like all activated charcoal, it can potentially lead to constipation if adequate hydration is not maintained.
- To prevent interference with absorption, ensure a 2-hour gap between taking activated charcoal and any medications, supplements, or meals.
- Not recommended for prolonged daily use without consulting a healthcare professional, due to potential for nutrient malabsorption.
- Adequate water intake is crucial when using activated charcoal to mitigate the risk of constipation.
$6.79($0.11 per serving)
 iHerb | $ 6.79 | |
 Walmart | $ 9.99 | |
 Amazon | $ 9.99 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Activated charcoal is widely used in emergency settings to help prevent the absorption of certain toxins and drugs in the stomach and intestines after an overdose or poisoning. It works by binding to substances, reducing their absorption into the bloodstream. This intervention is time-sensitive and requires medical supervision.
In acute poisoning or overdose, activated charcoal is medically administered to adsorb certain toxins in the digestive system, preventing their absorption into the bloodstream. This application is time-sensitive and requires immediate medical supervision in a clinical setting. Its effectiveness depends on the type of toxin and the timing of administration.
Yes, activated charcoal can significantly interfere with the effectiveness of many medications by binding to them in the digestive tract and preventing their absorption. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and even nutritional supplements. It is crucial to take activated charcoal at least 2-3 hours before or after other medications.
Activated charcoal is generally not considered effective for preventing or treating alcohol hangovers. It primarily adsorbs substances in the gut and does not effectively bind to alcohol once it has been absorbed into the bloodstream. Therefore, it has little impact on the effects of alcohol already metabolized.
There is limited scientific evidence to support the claim that activated charcoal effectively detoxifies the body from general toxins or pollutants in healthy individuals. The body's own organs, such as the liver and kidneys, are primarily responsible for detoxification. Its established use is for acute poisoning rather than routine detox.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
Due to its adsorptive properties, activated charcoal should generally be taken at least 1-2 hours before or after other supplements, medications, or food. This separation helps prevent the charcoal from binding to and reducing the absorption of these substances. Always consult a healthcare professional for specific timing advice with medications.
Yes, activated charcoal can bind to many substances, including prescription medications, potentially reducing their absorption and effectiveness. It is crucial to take activated charcoal at least 1-2 hours apart from any medications. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before use if taking any prescription drugs.
It is generally advised to take activated charcoal at least 1-2 hours apart from other medications or supplements. Activated charcoal can bind to substances in the digestive tract, potentially reducing the absorption and effectiveness of other ingested items. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding specific medication interactions.
Activated charcoal is typically sold as a fine black powder. It is also available in capsule or tablet form for convenience. The powder can be mixed with water or other liquids for consumption.
Activated charcoal can bind to various substances, including some vitamins and minerals, potentially reducing their absorption if taken too closely together. Therefore, it is generally advised to take activated charcoal a few hours apart from meals and other supplements. This separation helps ensure optimal nutrient uptake.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Yes, activated charcoal is known to reduce the absorption of many orally administered medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and other supplements. It is generally recommended to take activated charcoal at least 2-4 hours apart from other medications. Individuals taking regular medication should consult a healthcare professional before using activated charcoal.
Common side effects of activated charcoal include constipation and dark stools. Less frequently, individuals may experience nausea or vomiting. Staying well-hydrated can help alleviate some of these effects.
Activated charcoal can bind to various substances in the digestive tract, including vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients. Taking it alongside nutrient-rich foods or supplements may reduce their absorption. It is often suggested to take it separately from meals.
Individuals with intestinal obstruction, slowed digestion, or a compromised airway should generally avoid activated charcoal. It is also not recommended for children without medical supervision, or for those who have ingested corrosive substances, petroleum products, or heavy metals, as it may not be effective or could cause complications. Always consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
Activated charcoal is typically not recommended for long-term daily use as a dietary supplement. Prolonged use could potentially lead to nutritional deficiencies by absorbing essential vitamins and minerals from the digestive tract. It is usually indicated for acute situations or short-term protocols under appropriate guidance.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
activated Charcoal powder | 520 mg |
Categories
Activated Charcoal 90.0
This product stands out in the Activated Charcoal category due to its exceptional value, combining a solid effective dosage with a very low price per serving and overwhelming positive consumer feedback, positioning it as a top-tier choice for affordability and reliability.
Goals
Digestive Health 90.0
The 520mg dosage is highly effective for alleviating occasional gas and bloating by adsorbing intestinal irritants. Its excellent value proposition makes it a highly practical choice for consistent digestive health support.
Detoxification 85.0
This product efficiently aids in gastrointestinal detoxification by binding various unwanted substances in the gut for elimination. Its high efficacy and great value make it a strong option for localized detox, though it does not provide systemic detoxification.
Recommended Alternatives
95 Value 
Activated Charcoal
NOW
4.7
★★★★★
(2590 ratings)
With an impressive 1120mg dosage at merely $0.05 per serving, this product stands out as an exceptional value, offering high effectiveness at a significantly reduced cost compared to Swanson's.
98 Value 
Activated Charcoal Powder Unflavored
Nutricost
4.5
★★★★★
(112 ratings)
This powder provides an unmatched 1500mg dose of coconut charcoal for just $0.04 per serving, making it the most cost-effective solution for those prioritizing maximum value per milligram.
90 Value 
Activated Charcoal 500 mg
Natural Factors
4.8
★★★★★
(1165 ratings)
At $0.11 per serving for 1000mg of coconut-derived charcoal, it strikes an excellent balance between premium sourcing and affordability, delivering strong value.
95 Performance
Activated Charcoal
NOW
4.7
★★★★★
(2590 ratings)
This alternative is superior due to its significantly higher dosage (1120mg vs 520mg) at an even lower price, combined with an exceptionally high volume of positive user reviews, indicating greater overall effectiveness and value.
90 Performance
Activated Charcoal 500 mg
Natural Factors
4.8
★★★★★
(1165 ratings)
Offering a much higher dosage (1000mg vs 520mg) from a verified coconut source at a competitive price of $0.11 per serving, this product provides a much better combination of quality and value.
85 Performance 
Activated Vegetable Charcoal
Mason Natural
4.7
★★★★★
(2286 ratings)
Mason Natural provides a significantly higher 1040mg dosage per serving at a comparable price ($0.16) and boasts a large volume of positive reviews, suggesting greater efficacy and trustworthiness for a higher dose.
95 Budget
Activated Charcoal
NOW
4.7
★★★★★
(2590 ratings)
NOW offers a significantly higher 1120mg dosage at an incredibly low $0.05 per serving, providing superior efficacy and vastly better cost-effectiveness for those seeking a higher dose.
98 Budget
Activated Charcoal Powder Unflavored
Nutricost
4.5
★★★★★
(112 ratings)
This powder delivers an even higher 1500mg dosage for an unbeatable $0.04 per serving, making it dramatically more economical, especially for bulk use and flexible dosing.
80 Budget 
Activated Charcoal 280 mg
Solaray
4.8
★★★★★
(266 ratings)
Solaray offers a comparable 560mg dosage at the same $0.11 per serving price, providing a similar value alternative for activated charcoal in capsule form.
95 Value
Activated Charcoal
NOW
4.7
★★★★★
(2590 ratings)
With an impressive 1120mg dosage at merely $0.05 per serving, this product stands out as an exceptional value, offering high effectiveness at a significantly reduced cost compared to Swanson's.
98 Value
Activated Charcoal Powder Unflavored
Nutricost
4.5
★★★★★
(112 ratings)
This powder provides an unmatched 1500mg dose of coconut charcoal for just $0.04 per serving, making it the most cost-effective solution for those prioritizing maximum value per milligram.
90 Value
Activated Charcoal 500 mg
Natural Factors
4.8
★★★★★
(1165 ratings)
At $0.11 per serving for 1000mg of coconut-derived charcoal, it strikes an excellent balance between premium sourcing and affordability, delivering strong value.
95 Performance
Activated Charcoal
NOW
4.7
★★★★★
(2590 ratings)
This alternative is superior due to its significantly higher dosage (1120mg vs 520mg) at an even lower price, combined with an exceptionally high volume of positive user reviews, indicating greater overall effectiveness and value.
90 Performance
Activated Charcoal 500 mg
Natural Factors
4.8
★★★★★
(1165 ratings)
Offering a much higher dosage (1000mg vs 520mg) from a verified coconut source at a competitive price of $0.11 per serving, this product provides a much better combination of quality and value.
85 Performance
Activated Vegetable Charcoal
Mason Natural
4.7
★★★★★
(2286 ratings)
Mason Natural provides a significantly higher 1040mg dosage per serving at a comparable price ($0.16) and boasts a large volume of positive reviews, suggesting greater efficacy and trustworthiness for a higher dose.