The Effectiveness of Suppositories

The Effectiveness of Suppositories

Last October, we did a blog on alternatives to taking pills. This is the second in a series of follow-ups. We will discuss the advantages and differences in more detail. This entry is about suppositories.

What is a Suppository?

A suppository is a nutrient delivery system that dissolves or melts allowing the active ingredients to be absorbed into the blood stream. They are inserted into the rectum, vagina, or urethra. The base falls into one of two classifications: fatty or water soluble. The fatty base is made from cocoa butter (theobroma oil) or hydrogenated vegetable oils. Water soluble suppository bases consist of either polyethylene glycol or glycerinated gelatin.

The Benefits of Suppositories

There are many reasons a suppository is chosen over other more conventional means of supplementation or medication:

1. Some people have a hard time swallowing pills or liquids.
2. If there is a tendency to vomit and oral supplements would be expelled.
3. Some medications cause stomach upset and suppositories are better tolerated.
4. Nutrients are absorbed faster and more thoroughly since there is no breakdown of nutrients during digestion.
5. There is less stress on kidneys and the liver compared to taking certain supplements or medications orally.

Uses for Suppositories

The first use that comes to the minds of many people is using rectal suppositories for treating hemorrhoids. Another very popular use is for laxative purposes. However, there are various medications that are administered such as NSAIDS and opiates. Suppositories are also used for the administration of vitamins and minerals along with other nutritional supplements such as herbal extracts and amino acids. They are also used in many detoxification and chelation regiments.

Vaginal suppositories are typically used in the treatment of fungal and bacterial infections of the vagina. They are also used for contraception and progesterone therapy.

Urethral suppositories are used to treat erectile dysfunction (male impotence), but isn't as popular as it once was due to other types of medications.

The Best Delivery System for Some People

Suppositories have been in use for quite a while; and with good reason. As discussed earlier, the absorption is second only to an IV, is tolerated better for some people, and is easier on some organs. If you have any questions about suppositories (or any other health concerns), please feel free to contact us. We are here to help you make the best health decisions for you.

By Greg Benic, DR Vitamin Solutions

http://www.drvitaminsolutions.com/Sup...

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