Activated charcoal has also been used--in far smaller doses than are recommended for poisoning--to treat digestive complaints such as intestinal gas (flatulence), diarrhea, and stomach ulcer pain. There is good evidence to support some of these uses. A small study published in 1986, for example, showed that people who took activated charcoal experienced less gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort after eating than they did when they took a placebo or an over-the-counter flatulence medication.
Some nutritionally oriented doctors contend that charcoal's absorption abilities can help prevent fats from entering the bloodstream, thus lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. There are also claims that activated charcoal can rid the body of environmental toxins. To date, there's little evidence that charcoal is effective or safe for these uses, however.
Activated charcoal comes in pill and powder form. If you opt for the powder, mix it with a tall glass of water and drink it through a straw to avoid staining your teeth. (If your tongue and teeth are blackened by the charcoal, quickly brush your teeth and rinse; it should come right off.) Avoid taking activated charcoal with milk or other dairy products; they may lessen its effectiveness.
For flatulence, mix 2 tablespoons activated charcoal powder into large glass of water, and drink through a straw 30 minutes before a meal. Or you can take a 500 mg capsule of activated charcoal after meals and every two hours as needed. Take care not to ingest more than 4,000 mg in any 24-hour period.
