DrFeb
Health Guide

Hyprolose

Hypromellose is a plant-derived fiber that acts as a 'functional helper' in the wellness world. While it isn't a nutrient you seek out for direct health benefits like Vitamin C, it is the hero ingredient that makes many vegetarian supplements possible. Derived from cellulose (the structural part of plants), it is used to create vegetarian capsules and thicken foods. In the body, it acts as a gentle soluble fiber, helping to support digestive regularity and, in eye drop form, providing moisture to dry eyes. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and is a game-changer for those avoiding animal-based gelatin.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Hyprolose
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Solubility & Safety Profile

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Score (0-100)
Metric →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Enables Vegetarian Supplements: It replaces animal gelatin, allowing vegans to take essential vitamins.
  • Supports Digestive Health: As a soluble fiber, it aids in stool bulk and regularity.
  • Moisture Retention: It holds water well, helping to soothe dryness in the throat or eyes.

How It Works

Hypromellose is a 'hydrophilic' (water-loving) polymer. When you ingest it in a supplement capsule, it travels through the digestive tract intact. It doesn't get absorbed like a sugar; instead, it swells slightly with water, aiding the movement of food through your system. In manufacturing, it's the gold standard for 'plant-based' labeling because it creates a stable shell that dissolves reliably in the stomach.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike essential vitamins, Hypromellose is not found naturally on your plate. It is a modified form of cellulose found in plants. However, the fiber in your diet works similarly!

Food SourceFiber TypeBenefit
ApplesPectin (Soluble)Digestive Health
FlaxseedsMucilageMoisture/Regular
OatsBeta-GlucanHeart & Gut Health

Supplementation

Hypromellose is rarely taken as a standalone supplement. You are most likely consuming it as the capsule shell of your daily vitamins. If you are taking it as a fiber supplement (often found in 'psyllium husk' blends), the standard dose is usually 500mg to 2g mixed with a full glass of water.

Top Food Sources

Vegetable Capsules
200-400mg per capsule
Gluten-Free Baked Goods
Used as a thickener/binder
Eye Drops
0.1% - 0.5% concentration
Plant-Based Milks
Stabilizer
Fiber Supplements
Often mixed with Psyllium

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. It is derived from cellulose, which is the tough structural fiber found in trees and plants. It is chemically modified just enough to make it soluble in water.
Absolutely. In fact, Hypromellose is what *makes* vegan supplements possible. It replaces gelatin (which comes from animal bones and skin) to create the capsule shell.
No, it is completely tasteless and odorless, which makes it perfect for encapsulating vitamins and minerals.
Cellulose is the raw fiber found in plants. Hypromellose is cellulose that has been processed to be soluble in water. Your body cannot digest either of them, but Hypromellose can be used to create gels and capsules.

Safety & Side Effects

Hypromellose is considered very safe. It is non-toxic and passes through the body without being absorbed.

Who should be cautious?

  • Esophageal Obstruction: If you have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), always take supplements with plenty of water to prevent the capsule from sticking.
  • Allergies: While rare, hypersensitivity to cellulose derivatives is possible.

Side Effects: Mild bloating or gas may occur if you suddenly increase your intake of fiber-based supplements.

Scientific References

  • [1]U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - Everything Added to Food Inventory
  • [2]European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) - Panel on Food Additives
  • [3]Review of Hypromellose as a Drug Excipient (Pharmaceutical Technology)