Glycol

Why You Need It

• Enhanced Absorption: Acts as a solvent to help your body absorb vitamins and medicines more efficiently.
• Moisture Retention: Used in skincare and foods to prevent drying and maintain texture.
• Low-Calorie Carrier: Helps deliver flavors and active ingredients without adding significant calories.

Deep Dive

Propylene Glycol (PG) is chemically similar to Ethylene Glycol but lacks its toxicity. In the body, it acts as a simple humectant, meaning it attracts water. This is why it is found in 'sugar-free' foods—it provides a moist texture without the bulk of sugar. In medical settings, it is used to solubilize hard-to-dissolve drugs (like lorazepam or phenytoin) for IV administration. It is metabolized by the liver into lactic acid, a natural compound produced during exercise.

Natural & Dietary Sources

While Ethylene Glycol is toxic and found in antifreeze, Propylene Glycol is found in many common foods. It occurs naturally in small amounts in roasted peanuts, cocoa, and certain herbs, but is mostly added to products.

Supplementation

Propylene Glycol is rarely taken as a standalone supplement. Instead, it is the inactive ingredient listed on the label of Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and various herbal tinctures. It helps turn oil-based vitamins into a liquid you can swallow or inject. There is no specific 'Daily Value' for PG, as the body metabolizes it quickly.