A new over-the-counter treatment in Australia – called SilicolGel is tackling both the stigma around IBS and the symptoms of it. Australian owned natural medicine and device company, Substance has launched SilicolGel into the Australian market. SilicolGel relieves users of all the most common symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
SilicolGel has been available in the UK market for nine years and is certified as the UK’s number one gastro gel for IBS.
Tell us more about this product? What is it and how does it work?
SilicolGel is a precipitated silica gel. Silica is a common material found in nature – for example, rocks such as quartz, mica, and and granite all contain silica.
SilicolGel acts like a protective layer lining the gut and, as it goes down, it soothes. Once in the gut, it acts like a magnet that absorbs some of the irritants and gases that are contributing to the symptoms of IBS. It wraps them up like bubble wrap and then helps the body to naturally dispose of them.
How it works:
- It coats the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract with a soothing and protective lining of silicic acid gel.
- This lining attracts irritants and pathogens that can disturb the gut and binds them to the gel. During this process, the SilicolGel particles also adsorb excess acidity and gases.
- These bound molecules are then rendered harmless and are passed through the body when the stomach empties naturally.
Typically, we expect users to start to feel improvement within 2-3 days. However, this will depend upon the type and severity of the gastric disorder and varies from person to person. For example, with heartburn, the user might feel a very quick benefit but someone with long term IBS symptoms may take a bit longer.
What are the benefits of using SilicolGel?
SilicolGel relieves users of all the most common symptoms associated with IBS. It’s been available in the UK market for nine years and is certified as the UK’s number one gastro gel for IBS (IRI IBS Category Data to 25th Dec 2021).
It has been clinically proven to relieve gas, diarrhoea, heartburn, reflux, nausea, abdominal pain, and bowel discomfort and has already been met with a hugely positive reception since its launch in Australia earlier this year.
Who is SilicolGel aimed at?
SilicolGel is recommended as a treatment, so can be used to manage flare-ups and for suffers of "mild" IBS symptoms. After 4 weeks of continuous usage, we suggest a break of 4-5 days so that users can re-evaluate symptoms and adjust the dosage if needed. Most people usually find good relief after 2 weeks of usage or less, and then can either use the product less frequently or as required when their problem flares up.
When is it best to take SilicolGel? What is the recommended dosage etc.?
We recommend taking it neat or with water for best results. Other liquids such as citrus drinks may affect the matrix structure of SilicolGel, and therefore lessen the effectiveness of the product.
The recommended dosage is 15ml, three times daily, at least one hour before meals.
Are there any contraindications for the use of SilicoGel? If so, what are they?
Silicolgel is not contra-indicated with other medications. However, the binding capacity of SilicolGel could impair the effectiveness of some medicines. As SilicolGel may absorb the medication preventing them from being fully absorbed into the bloodstream where they work, it is recommended to take SilicolGel at least one hour before or after any other medications.
How does SilicolGel differ from similar products on the market aimed at reducing IBS symptoms?
SilicolGel works differently from other products with its unique mode of action. Most products for IBS/gastro-intestinal disorders typically treat specific symptoms, e.g. an antidiarrheal medicine for diarrhoea, an antacid for heartburn or an antispasmodic drug for stomach cramps.
SilicolGel works in a different way – it’s not absorbed by the gut. It acts locally within the gut and the gut wall by physical means to remove irritants and soothe irritation. It thus helps a range of symptoms, and many users find it reduces the need to have a cocktail of different medicines.
Is SilicolGel suitable for other diet restrictions or lifestyles?
SilicolGel is suitable for vegetarians, vegans and those intolerant to gluten. It contains 3.5g Silicon dioxide in 100ml Silicic acid gel, sorbic acid and sodium benzoate. However, you should always read the label and follow the directions for use.
Where can customers buy SilicolGel?
SilicolGel is now available on shelves in Australia at Chemist Warehouse , and other leading pharmacies.
Always read the label and follow directions for use. Consult your health care professional before commencing any supplementation.
Monash University has assessed this product as being low in FODMAPs but has not assessed its suitability as a therapeutic good. Monash University Low FODMAP Certified trade marks used under licence in Australia by Substance Pty Ltd. One serve of this product can assist with following the Monash University Low FODMAP dietTM. A strict low FODMAP diet should not be commenced without supervision from a healthcare professional. Monash University receives a licence fee for use of the Monash University Low FODMAP Certified trade marks.