Health Guide

Polyethylene glycol

Polyethylene glycol (PEG), also known as macrogol, is a synthetic polymer used widely in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. While it acts as a laxative (osmotic) in high doses, it is also used as a food additive (E1521) to retain moisture, bind ingredients, and improve texture. It is **not a natural nutrient** found in fruits or vegetables, but it is considered safe by the FDA for specific uses. Understanding its dual role helps you make informed choices about the medications you take and the ingredients you consume.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

PEG Absorption vs. Food Nutrients

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Absorption Rate (%)

Compound Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It (and What It Does)

PEG is a versatile compound with two main roles depending on the dosage:

Relief from Constipation: In high doses (14g to 17g), PEG acts as an osmotic laxative. It works by holding water in the stool, softening it, and stimulating bowel movements without gas or cramping.
Ingredient Stabilizer: In small amounts, it acts as a humectant (keeps things moist), a solvent, and a lubricant. It helps mix oil and water-based ingredients in processed foods and cosmetics.

How It Works

PEG is a large molecule that the body cannot absorb. When taken as a laxative, it stays in the intestines, drawing water from the body into the colon. This increases pressure and softens the stool, allowing it to pass easily. Because it isn't absorbed, it passes out of the body unchanged.

Natural Food Sources

Important Context: Polyethylene glycol is a synthetic chemical, not a nutrient found in nature. You will not find it in raw fruits, vegetables, or whole grains. It is manufactured in laboratories for industrial and medical use.

However, it is approved as a food additive (E1521) and may appear in:

Food / Product Type	Common Use	Typical Amount
Baked Goods	Glazes, icing	Low (Trace)
Confectionery	Candy coatings, chewing gum	Low (Trace)
Meat Products	Binding agent	Low (Trace)
Dairy / Frozen	Stabilizer	Low (Trace)

Supplementation

PEG is most commonly used as a supplement for colonoscopy preparation or chronic constipation relief (e.g., Miralax). It is available over-the-counter as a powder to be dissolved in water.

Top Food Sources

Candy/Glazes

Used as a glazing agent

Chewing Gum

Softener/Texturizer

Medical Syrups

Solvent/Carrier

Laxative Powder

17g per dose

Cosmetics

Moisturizing agent

Frequently Asked Questions

No. PEG is a synthetic polymer made from petroleum byproducts. It is man-made, not naturally occurring in food sources.

Generally, no. High molecular weight PEG is poorly absorbed by the gut. Any tiny amount that is absorbed is rapidly excreted by the kidneys.

Yes. The FDA approves it as a food additive. The amounts used in food are very small and considered safe for consumption.

It typically produces a bowel movement in 1 to 3 days. It is designed for short-term use unless directed by a doctor for chronic management.

Safety & Side Effects

PEG is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used appropriately.

Common Side Effects (Laxative Doses):

Nausea
Bloating
Abdominal cramping
Diarrhea (if overused)

Who Should Avoid It?

Individuals with a bowel obstruction or perforation.
People with severe kidney disease (consult a doctor).
Those with a known allergy to PEG (rare, but possible).

Warning: Do not use PEG powders for colonoscopy prep if you have symptoms of appendicitis (nausea, vomiting, stomach pain).

Scientific References

[1]U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 'Everything Added to Food in the United States.' (E1521 Safety Assessment).
[2]Belsey, J. D., et al. 'Systematic review of the efficacy and safety of polyethylene glycol in the treatment of constipation.' (Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics).
[3]National Institutes of Health (NIH). 'Polyethylene Glycol 3350 - Drug Information.'