Cellulose

Definition:
Cellulose is a natural, plant-based dietary fiber that occurs in the cell walls of plants. It is the main component of wood, cotton and other plant materials. As an indigestible dietary fiber, cellulose plays an important role in your digestion and general health. It is also often used as an excipient in the manufacture of food supplements and foods.

Why is cellulose important to you?

For your digestion: Cellulose is an insoluble fiber. This means that it is not digested by your body, but “travels” through your intestines. It helps with this:

• Stimulate your digestion.
• prevent constipation.
• Keep your gut healthy.

In the food and supplement industry: Cellulose is used in many products as a filler, binder or stabilizer, as it is tasteless and versatile. You will often find it in:

• food supplements (e.g. as a carrier or capsule material).
• Diet products (as a calorie-free dietary fiber).
• foods such as baked goods or drinks to improve the consistency.

In vegan products: Cellulose is often used as a substitute for animal gelatine in capsules or gummy bears. This makes it an ideal choice for you if you want to avoid animal products.

How does cellulose work in your body?

• Cellulose is not digested or converted into energy, but ensures that the intestinal contents are transported more quickly through the digestive tract.
• It increases the stool volume, which facilitates bowel movements.
• By binding water, cellulose helps the bowel to work better and prevents constipation.

What is cellulose used for in food supplements?

Cellulose has many applications in food supplements. Here are some examples:

• Filler: It ensures that tablets or capsules have the desired size.
• Binding agent: Cellulose helps to hold the ingredients together in a pill or tablet.
• Coating for vegan capsules: Microcrystalline cellulose is often used instead of gelatine to create a plant-based alternative.

Is cellulose safe for you?

Yes, cellulose has been used in the food and pharmaceutical industries for decades. As it is a natural component of plant-based foods, it is present in your daily diet anyway – for example in fruit, vegetables or wholegrain products. There are no known side effects with normal consumption. However, you should make sure you drink enough water if you consume cellulose-containing fiber, as it could otherwise cause digestive problems.

Cellulose in your diet

If you want to increase your fiber intake, you can simply include more foods with natural cellulose in your diet:

• Fruit: apples, berries, oranges.
• Vegetables: carrots, broccoli, celery.
• Whole grain products: Oat flakes, wholemeal bread.
• Legumes: beans, lentils.

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