Gluconate sources, health risks

Gluconate is classified as the salt, ester, or anionic form of gluconic acid, according to an entry featured on the Medical Dictionary website. The compound is commonly used as an acidity regulator that helps modify the acidity or alkalinity of a food product. Likewise, it is used as a raising agent that produces gas to help increase dough volume. The compound naturally occurs in various foods such as honey, kombucha tea, fruits, and wine.

Aside from being a food preservative, gluconate or gluconic acid is also used in cleaning products that help eliminate mineral deposits. An entry posted on the Noshly website notes that the compound is a highly effective chelating agent for calcium, iron, aluminium, copper and other heavy metals. The entry adds that the compound is especially effective when used as an alkaline solution.

The article also adds that the food additive can be genetically modified. According to the entry, the compound is produced from dextrose or glucose, which is then converted into gluconic acid by using certain enzymes or through fermentation by molds.

Harmful effects that can be caused by gluconate

Exposure to gluconate or gluconic acid may result in adverse medical emergencies whether inhaled, ingested, or exposed to both the skin or eyes.

The food additive is known to be significantly detrimental to respiratory health. Inhaling the compound may result in irritation of both the mucous membrane and the respiratory tract, according to a Via Chem Inc entry. The entry highlights the importance of wearing protective masks to prevent exposure and inhalation. The article also suggests that people exposed to gluconate should be brought to an area with fresh air. Professional medical intervention should also be sought if symptoms persist, the article adds.

Prolonged or repeated gluconic acid exposure is also shown to trigger adverse skin conditions characterized by moderate irritation, dermatitis, and defatting. The entry suggests that people exposed to gluconate should wash the affected area with soap and water. Likewise, the article advises that people seek medical help if symptoms persist. In addition, gluconate is found to be notoriously harmful to the eyes. The article has revealed that gluconic acid exposure may result in severe eye irritation. The compound is also known to cause redness, tearing and blurred vision. Experts recommend washing the eyes for up to 15 minutes and seeking medical attention if eye irritation persists.

Moreover, gluconate is found to induce a host of digestive issues as well. The article notes that ingesting gluconate or gluconic acid may lead to gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, and vomiting. The compound is also known to trigger the onset of diarrhea, the entry adds. The article advises that people exposed to the compound drink water as a precautionary measure. The entry also cautions that people should not induce vomiting. According to the article, people should seek immediate medical assistance upon exposure.

Body systems harmed by gluconate

Gluconate or gluconic acid exposure is particularly harmful to the respiratory tract. Likewise, the food additive is notoriously detrimental to skin health. The compound may also negatively affect the digestive system’s overall health. Gluconate may cause severe eye conditions as well.

Where to learn more

• Balance Sodium with Potassium for Good Health
• How magnesium prevents heart disease
• How to Beat and Prevent the Avian Flu and Other Influenzas
• Five Reasons to Drink Kombucha Every Day
• Finding the Powerful Forces of Nature in the Compost Pile

Summary

Gluconate causes irritation of the mucous membrane and respiratory tract.

Gluconate also triggers eye irritation, redness and tearing as well as blurred vision.

Gluconate exposure results in various skin and digestives conditions.

Gluconate is harmful to both the respiratory and digestive system.

Gluconate is detrimental to both eye and skin health.

Sources include:

Medical-Dictionary.TheFreeDictionary.com

Noshly.com

ViaChemInc.com