By Shellie L. English, Ph.D., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)®, DOM, L.Ac.,
Many people experience a reduction in digestive power as they age. Medications and diet can affect gut motility, bacterial balance, acid production, and enzymes, resulting in slower digestive muscle contractions and reduced gastrointestinal (GI) immunity. Lowered digestive immunity means increased susceptibility to contaminants and toxins from food or water. Building better gut health is key, but it takes time. In the meantime, there are ways to support yourself if exposed to a toxin.
Some medications and a poor diet can reduce stomach acid or suppress immunity. Reduced immunity increases the risk of acquiring bacteria, viruses, and toxins from food. In this case, bismuth subsalicylate (commonly found in a pink liquid or tablet form, such as Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate, or their generic counterparts) is critical to have on hand. It is antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antacid, and can bind toxins. It is a safe and effective first line of defense for moments of nausea, diarrhea, indigestion, and GI distress.
A 2020 systematic review in Digestive Diseases and Sciences concluded that “bismuth subsalicylate can be beneficial for those at risk or affected by food and waterborne diarrheal disease, such as traveler’s (infectious) diarrhea, and may decrease the risk of inappropriate antibiotic utilization.” Bismuth compounds can also inhibit the growth of stubborn Helicobacter pylori and reduce viral replication in infections.
Where bismuth subsalicylate supports infectious toxins, activated charcoal is an effective sponge for chemical toxins or heavy metals from raw fruits, vegetables, or unfamiliar foods consumed during travel. Made from charred coconut shell or wood, activated charcoal attracts toxins and chemicals on its porous surface within the body and eliminates them in the stool.
A 2022 PubMed-NCBI summary says, “An oral suspension of activated charcoal should be considered in poisonings when gastrointestinal decontamination of an ingested toxin is indicated. Activated charcoal is most efficacious within one hour of ingesting the toxin.” Activated charcoal can bind chemicals like pesticides, alcohol, and some medications. It can interfere with medicines and nutrient absorption, so use caution when dosing necessary medications.
Activated charcoal is best if taken within one hour of exposure to a harmful substance. It cannot replace emergency medicine, but it is helpful to have on hand as an immediate response to a medication mishap or after ingesting a toxin.
In sum, you have two options to help you when you consume something that does not feel right. Activated charcoal will be your go-to resource to mop up chemicals. Bismuth subsalicylate will help you address stomach upset, minor foodborne illnesses, or travelers’ diarrhea. It can help protect against pathogens like E. coli, salmonella, or norovirus — often found in contaminated or undercooked foods. Think of it as an antimicrobial for the gut.
Be aware that if you take blood thinners or are sensitive to aspirin that bismuth subsalicylate is chemically related to aspirin. Take bismuth subsalicylate at the first signs of digestive upset to prevent things from worsening. Sometimes, all you need is a bit of pink bismuth subsalicylate to soothe your digestive system and prevent the need for antibiotics. Abundant blessings!
