Quick Summary
DGL Licorice is a form of licorice extract from which the glycyrrhizin compound has been removed to reduce potential side effects. It is primarily studied for its potential role in supporting the gut barrier and digestive mucosa. However, current evidence from human clinical trials is insufficient to draw firm conclusions about its effectiveness.
What Is It?
DGL Licorice, or deglycyrrhizinated licorice extract, is processed to remove glycyrrhizin, a compound in licorice root associated with side effects such as increased blood pressure and electrolyte imbalances. This modified extract is categorized among supplements aimed at promoting digestive tract health, particularly the integrity of the gut lining and mucosa.
How It May Work in the Body
DGL Licorice is proposed to help maintain the health of the digestive mucosa and support gut barrier integrity. The exact biological mechanisms remain unclear. No detailed research on specific pathways or active components has been provided to confirm these actions.
Note: The mechanisms are speculative based on limited data; more research is needed to elucidate how DGL Licorice may act in the digestive system.
Common Supplement Forms
Information regarding specific supplement forms of DGL Licorice was not supplied. Typically, licorice extracts are available as chewable tablets, capsules, or powders, but no data confirms the common formats for deglycyrrhizinated licorice in this context.
Typical Dosage and How It Is Used
No specific dosage data or official recommended daily intake (RDA) exist for DGL Licorice. Study dosages were not available in the supplied evidence. Consumers should follow product label instructions or consult healthcare professionals for guidance.
Important: There is currently no established RDA or Adequate Intake (AI) for DGL Licorice.
Natural Sources
DGL Licorice is a processed form of licorice root extract with glycyrrhizin removed. Licorice root itself is the natural source but contains glycyrrhizin, which is specifically excluded from DGL formulations to enhance safety.
Absorption and Bioavailability
No information was provided on the absorption, metabolism, or bioavailability of DGL Licorice. Differences between supplement forms, as well as factors influencing its uptake, remain uncharacterized.
Potential Benefits: What Does the Evidence Say?
Gut Barrier and Digestive Mucosa
Current evidence from human clinical trials or systematic reviews on DGL Licorice’s effects on digestive mucosa or gut barrier health is lacking or not available in the supplied data. As a result, claims regarding its beneficial effects remain unsupported by strong clinical evidence.
Early or limited data may have motivated its use for digestive health; however, human studies to confirm efficacy are still needed.
Side Effects and Safety
The evidence did not supply data on common side effects, contraindications, toxicity, or safety concerns related to DGL Licorice supplementation. The removal of glycyrrhizin in DGL is intended to reduce the known side effects of traditional licorice extracts (such as increased blood pressure), but the overall safety profile of DGL Licorice supplements has not been comprehensively documented.
Drug and Supplement Interactions
No information on potential drug interactions or interactions with other supplements was available for DGL Licorice.
Who Should Be Careful?
Due to the lack of comprehensive safety data, individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have medical conditions, or are using medications should consult a healthcare professional before using DGL Licorice supplements.
Given that glycyrrhizin causes known side effects and is removed from DGL Licorice, the safety risks may be lower compared to traditional licorice, but this cannot be assumed without proper evidence.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Special Populations
There is no specific information available on the safety or use of DGL Licorice during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in children. People in these groups should consult healthcare providers before use.
Quality, Standardization and What to Look For
No data was provided on standardization of DGL Licorice products or quality control measures. When choosing supplements, consumers should look for products from reputable manufacturers with good manufacturing practices (GMP) certification and third-party testing to ensure purity and absence of contaminants.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between licorice and DGL Licorice?
DGL Licorice is licorice extract with glycyrrhizin removed to reduce potential side effects associated with traditional licorice. - Is DGL Licorice safe to use?
Safety data is limited; while removal of glycyrrhizin may reduce known risks, consulting a healthcare professional prior to use is advisable. - Are there EU-authorized health claims for DGL Licorice?
No EU-authorized health claims were available in the supplied evidence. - What dose should I take?
No official dosage recommendations exist. Follow label instructions or consult a healthcare professional. - Does DGL Licorice cure digestive disorders?
There is insufficient evidence to support treatment claims. It may be studied for gut mucosa support, but evidence is not definitive.
Evidence Limitations
- No human clinical trials, systematic reviews, or meta-analyses data were supplied.
- Lack of data on safety, dosage, absorption, and mechanism of action.
- No official intake recommendations or documented side effects available.
References
No references were provided in the supplied evidence.
Last Reviewed
June 2024
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using dietary supplements, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or are taking medications.