Activated Charcoal
What is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is a special form of carbon that can bind to other substances. It is made by burning things like wood, coal, peat, coconut shells or petroleum at very high temperatures to create charcoal. The charcoal is then treated in a special way so that lots of tiny nooks and crannies are created throughout. This increases the surface area so there is more space for substances to bind to the charcoal. [1]
Activated charcoal is often given in emergency situations to patients who have ingested a poison. It binds to the poison so that it is not absorbed in the stomach. Activated charcoal is typically mixed with water and given to the patient to drink. It may also have sorbitol which is a sugar alcohol that acts as a laxative. Note that the activated charcoal used in hospitals is far more potent than what is available over the counter.
Activated charcoal is also often used in water filtration systems because it can bind undesirable contaminants.
Is Activated Charcoal Beneficial for Autism?
It can be if used correctly, but shouldn’t be used long-term or without supervision by a medical professional.
In the context of autism, activated charcoal is often used to mitigate the effects of bacterial die-off (Herxheimer reactions). It may also be used if a person is undergoing a detoxification protocol, activated charcoal may be used to bind the toxins and flush them out of the body. There is little research to support the use of activated charcoal in this way, though many integrative and functional practitioners do recommend it due to anecdotal evidence that it is effective. [4] Some research says that activated carbon is less effective than acid-activated bentonite at binding mycotoxins (mold toxins). [3]
Activated charcoal is often used in cases of dysbiosis, mold exposure, toxic load, and yeast overgrowth. This is because these health conditions involve toxins (note many bacteria, yeast, and mold produce toxins as a protective measure, especially when they’re being killed off). One research study suggests that toxins produced by unfavorable gut microbiota may lead to injurious effects in the brain, and that activated charcoal may be useful in microbe-induced neurobehavioral disorders, including ASD. [2]
Activated charcoal can be constipating and should be taken with plenty of water. When the goal is to flush toxic or poisonous substances out of the body, constipation can be harmful as it would encourage reabsorption of toxins in the body. It is important to work with a practitioner to ensure that bowel elimination is regular when using activated charcoal.
Side Effects
A common side effect of taking activated charcoal is constipation, so if your child is prone to harder stools, make sure they stay as hydrated as possible before and after taking it. Consumption of activated charcoal should be monitored by a healthcare practitioner to prescribe the correct dosing as side effects of excessive intake can include nausea and vomiting. Taking activated charcoal long-term is not advised as it can bind minerals and deplete them over time. It should be taken short-term with the guidance of a healthcare practitioner.
Supplementation
Activated charcoal is available in capsule form and if a person cannot swallow pills, it should be mixed with a liquid. The charcoal will be black so for a child, hiding it in a dark liquid like grape juice or in a dark cup is helpful.
Note: it’s important to take activated charcoal at least an hour away from all supplements, medication, and food.
Examples of common activated charcoal supplements include:
Capsule/Softgel
DISCLAIMER: Before starting any supplement or medication, always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it is a good fit for your child. Dosage can vary based on age, weight, gender, and current diet.
