Gaviscon Extra Strength Antacid Liquid - Cool mint 12oz
Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This antacid liquid contains beneficial ingredients like magnesium carbonate and sodium alginate, which help neutralize stomach acid and prevent acid reflux. However, it also includes saccharin sodium, an artificial sweetener with potential health concerns, and vague 'flavor' components that lack transparency. The presence of these less desirable ingredients and the overall level of processing impact its score.
Key ingredients 12
Magnesium CarbonateGood
Magnesium carbonate acts as an antacid and provides magnesium, an essential mineral. It helps neutralize stomach acid and supports bone health. It is generally well-tolerated and beneficial for those needing magnesium supplementation.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to diarrhea or electrolyte imbalance.
Benefits
Provides magnesium, which is crucial for bone health and metabolic functions.
Sodium AlginateGood
Sodium alginate is a natural polysaccharide used to form a protective barrier in the stomach. It helps prevent acid reflux by forming a gel-like layer. It is derived from brown seaweed and is generally considered safe.
Benefits
Helps prevent acid reflux by forming a protective barrier in the stomach.
Aluminum HydroxideNeutral
Aluminum hydroxide is used as an antacid to neutralize stomach acid. It is generally considered safe for short-term use but can cause constipation. Long-term use may lead to aluminum accumulation, especially in individuals with kidney issues.
Risks
Potential for aluminum accumulation with long-term use, particularly in those with kidney impairment.
Benefits
Effective in neutralizing stomach acid and providing relief from heartburn and indigestion.
Calcium CarbonateNeutral
Calcium carbonate is a common antacid that neutralizes stomach acid. It also provides calcium, which is essential for bone health. However, excessive use can lead to hypercalcemia or kidney stones.
Risks
Excessive use may lead to hypercalcemia or kidney stones.
Benefits
Provides calcium, which is essential for bone health, and neutralizes stomach acid.
Edetate DisodiumNeutral
Edetate disodium is a chelating agent used to bind metal ions and improve product stability. It is generally safe in small amounts but can cause side effects if used excessively. It helps prevent discoloration and degradation of the product.
Risks
Excessive use may lead to mineral deficiencies.
Benefits
Helps stabilize the product by binding metal ions.
GlycerinNeutral
Glycerin is a humectant that helps retain moisture in products. It is generally recognized as safe and is used in many pharmaceutical and food products. It has a sweet taste but does not significantly impact blood sugar levels.
Benefits
Helps retain moisture and improve texture in products.
Simethicone EmulsionNeutral
Simethicone is used to reduce bloating and discomfort caused by gas. It works by breaking up gas bubbles in the stomach. It is generally considered safe and effective for short-term use.
Benefits
Helps reduce bloating and discomfort caused by gas.
SorbitolNeutral
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and humectant. It provides sweetness with fewer calories than sugar. However, excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.
Risks
Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Benefits
Provides sweetness with fewer calories than sugar.
Cetylpyridinium ChlorideNeutral
Cetylpyridinium chloride is an antiseptic used to kill bacteria and prevent infections. It is commonly used in oral care products. While effective, it can cause irritation in some individuals.
Risks
May cause irritation in some individuals.
Benefits
Acts as an antiseptic to kill bacteria and prevent infections.
Benzyl AlcoholBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Acts as a preservative to maintain product stability.
FlavorBad
The term 'flavor' is vague and can include a variety of artificial or natural compounds. It lacks transparency and may include undesirable additives. The lack of specificity makes it difficult to assess safety and health impacts.
Risks
Potential inclusion of artificial additives or allergens.
Saccharin SodiumBad
Saccharin sodium is an artificial sweetener that provides sweetness without calories. It has been controversial due to potential links to cancer in animal studies. Although deemed safe by regulatory agencies, some consumers prefer to avoid it.
Risks
Potential links to cancer in animal studies, though deemed safe by regulatory agencies.
Benefits
Provides sweetness without adding calories.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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