Use of microencapsulated ingredients in dietary supplement formulation

To maximize the effectiveness of a dietary supplement while minimizing potential side effects, it is crucial to control the release of its active ingredients.
Microencapsulation is the solution that protects active ingredients, enhancing their availability, absorption, and stability while targeting their release to specific sites in the gastrointestinal tract when necessary.
Many active ingredients used in dietary supplements can degrade during passage through the gastrointestinal tract or may not be fully absorbed if they do not reach the appropriate site. Microencapsulation solves this problem by protecting the active ingredients from premature degradation (such as oxidation or exposure to gastric juices) and enhancing their absorption. The microcapsules can be designed to release the active ingredient only when they reach the ideal absorption site in the intestine.

The role of microencapsulation in protecting active ingredients

This is particularly useful for supplements containing active ingredients that may irritate the stomach, such as peppermint, widely used for its beneficial effects on digestive health. Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, which relaxes the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, reducing spasms, bloating, and symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Peppermint promotes intestinal motility, relieves the sensation of fullness after meals, and has carminative effects, counteracting the formation of intestinal gas.

The beneficial properties of peppermint and its impact on the gastrointestinal tract

Peppermint is also used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a natural remedy for various types of pain and inflammation. Menthol, in addition to being a potent vasodilator, has soothing effects that can be helpful in treating headaches, muscle tension, and joint pain.
However, peppermint essential oil can be irritating to the stomach, especially for those suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or gastritis. When ingested, the menthol in this ingredient, acting on cold receptors in the body, can excessively stimulate the nerves and muscles of the stomach, causing discomfort or irritation. Additionally, it can increase gastric acid production or alter stomach motility, leading to a burning sensation and worsening GERD or gastritis symptoms.

Microencapsulation: a solution to limit the irritating effect of peppermint

Microencapsulation offers an effective solution to mitigate this effect by protecting the active ingredient inside a gastro-resistant membrane, which remains intact in the stomach and only disintegrates in the enteric tract, promoting the release of the ingredient solely at this site. The essential oil is therefore released slowly and in a controlled manner, avoiding direct contact with the stomach lining and reducing the risk of irritation.

Conclusions

Microencapsulation is a fundamental technology to optimize the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements. By protecting active ingredients from degradation and targeting their release at the ideal absorption site, this technique offers numerous benefits, including improved absorption and minimized side effects.
In particular, for ingredients that may cause gastric irritation, such as peppermint essential oil, microencapsulation allows for the full therapeutic potential of the active ingredient without compromising its tolerability. Therefore, adopting this technology is an important step towards optimizing and customizing supplements, ensuring targeted release and greater effectiveness in supporting digestive and overall health.