Cholacol® by Standard Process: Benefits, Uses & Digestive Support

The following information is a summary and review based on Dr. Candy's professional experience and recommendations. Any summary or statement has not been provided nor influenced by the manufacturer.

 

If you’ve never heard of Cholacol® by Standard Process, you’re in for a treat. This supplement has been one of my favorite tools for supporting healthy digestion, especially for clients who struggle to break down fats or who no longer have a gallbladder.

Standard Process is known for using whole-food ingredients that work with the body’s natural systems, not against them. Cholacol® fits that mission perfectly, offering targeted digestive support and overall wellness benefits.

Below, I’ll walk you through how Cholacol® works, what’s in it, who it’s best for, and what to keep in mind when using it.

Standard Process Cholacol Journeys Holistic Life

Key Benefits of Cholacol®

I often recommend Cholacol® for clients who need help supporting their liver, gallbladder, or digestive function. Here are the main ways it helps:

1. Supports Healthy Fat Digestion
Cholacol® contains desiccated bovine bile, a natural source of bile acids. Bile acids are essential for breaking down and absorbing dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. If you’ve had your gallbladder removed or feel bloated after eating rich meals, this support can make a big difference.

2. Promotes Smooth Digestion
When your body can digest fats properly, you’ll notice less bloating, discomfort, or indigestion. Clients who use Cholacol® often report feeling lighter and more comfortable after meals.

3. Gentle Support for Circulation and Vein Health
The formula includes Collinsonia root (also called stone root), a traditional herb used to support vein and capillary strength. It’s been used for hundreds of years to promote good circulation and smooth elimination.

4. Complements a Holistic Wellness Plan
I use Cholacol® alongside dietary adjustments, probiotics, and gentle detox support. When your digestive system is balanced, the rest of your body functions more efficiently too.

Standard Process Cholacol

How Practitioners Use Cholacol®

Cholacol® is commonly recommended by holistic practitioners for the following:

  • Bile Salt Insufficiency: If your body isn’t producing enough bile, this supplement provides gentle, natural support.

  • Gallbladder Concerns: For clients with sluggish bile flow or who have had gallbladder removal, Cholacol® helps support normal fat metabolism.

  • Digestive Discomfort: It’s especially useful for people who feel queasy, bloated, or gassy after high-fat meals.

This supplement doesn’t “treat” or “cure” a disease, it simply supports your body’s normal digestive functions so that your system can do its job more efficiently.

I often include Cholacol® as part of a personalized digestive wellness plan, alongside food-based strategies and lifestyle guidance.

Cholacol by Standard Process

Supplement Facts and Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll find inside Cholacol® by Standard Process:

Serving Size: 2 tablets per meal

Nutritional Profile:

  • Total Carbohydrates: < 1 g

  • Sodium: 20 mg

Proprietary Blend (705 mg):

  • Collinsonia Root (Stone Root) – traditionally supports digestion and healthy circulation.

  • Desiccated Bovine Bile – supports the body’s natural bile acid function and helps emulsify fats.

Other Ingredients: honey (as a binder and natural sweetener), calcium stearate (to keep ingredients from sticking during manufacturing).

Every ingredient in this formula is carefully chosen to complement natural digestion without unnecessary additives.

Side Effects and Precautions

Cholacol® is generally very well tolerated, but it’s always wise to know what to expect:

Possible Side Effects:

  • Mild stomach upset or loose stool if taken in excess

  • Rarely, constipation if digestion slows down

Precautions:

  • Avoid use if you have a known allergy to any ingredient.

  • Do not use if you have gallstones, bile duct obstruction, or other bile-related disorders.

  • If you are pregnant or nursing, check with your healthcare provider first.

  • Always keep out of reach of children.

As with any supplement, follow the label instructions. If you experience any discomfort or adverse reactions, stop use and consult your healthcare provider.

Is Cholacol® Gluten-Free?

Yes, Cholacol® by Standard Process is gluten-free. That makes it a great choice for people following gluten-free or low-carb diets, including ketogenic plans.

Standard Process maintains strict ingredient sourcing and production standards to ensure purity and safety.

Where to Buy Cholacol®

You can order Cholacol® directly from my Journey’s Holistic Life online store. As an authorized Standard Process retailer, I guarantee you’ll receive authentic, high-quality products that have been stored and shipped under the proper conditions.

Ordering online is simple and secure, and I’m always happy to answer questions about how Cholacol® might fit into your wellness plan.

My Professional Take

Over the years, I’ve seen Cholacol® make a noticeable difference for many clients who were struggling with digestive discomfort, especially after gallbladder removal. It’s a gentle but effective supplement that works best when paired with a nutrient-dense diet, hydration, and mindful eating habits.

If you often feel bloated or sluggish after meals, or if you have a history of gallbladder issues, this may be worth discussing with your holistic practitioner.


FAQs

What is Cholacol® used for?
Cholacol® supports digestion, especially the breakdown and absorption of fats. It’s commonly used by people with sluggish digestion or those who have had their gallbladder removed.

Can I take Cholacol® every day?
Yes, Cholacol® is typically safe for daily use when taken as directed. I often recommend taking it with meals that contain fat.

Does Cholacol® help with constipation?
It can in some cases, since proper bile flow helps regulate bowel movements. However, if constipation persists, check with your healthcare provider.

Can I take Cholacol® with other supplements?
Usually, yes. It pairs well with digestive enzymes, probiotics, and liver-support supplements like A-F Betafood®.

Is Cholacol® suitable for vegetarians?
No, Cholacol® contains bovine (beef-derived) bile, so it isn’t suitable for strict vegetarians or vegans.

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Dr. Candy Akers

About the Author

Dr. Candy Akers is a holistic veterinarian, veterinary clinic owner, Veterinary Medical Supervisory Board Leader, Certified Raw Dog Food Nutrition Specialist, and author. She completed her undergraduate studies at The University of Delaware and graduated from veterinary school in 2009 at Oklahoma State University. In high school, Dr. Akers was drawn to wildlife rehabilitation, which provided her with unparalleled experience in animal healing in a field that has limited resources and a wide variety of conditions to treat. Before vet school, she spent two years working full-time providing oil spill response for wildlife all over the country.

Since earning her Degree of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 2009, Dr. Candy has specialized in companion animal nutrition. Her extensive education in nutrition has made her a firm believer in species-specific, biologically appropriate diets. She is passionate about educating pet parents on natural alternatives that actually work, combining the best of holistic health and conventional medicine in a unique approach to pet health. This approach is often applied to chronic diseases, allergies, and autoimmune conditions. Dr. Akers started her own veterinary practice 9 years ago in Colorado and has dedicated her entire life to improving the health and happiness of animals everywhere.