White Bean Extract
White bean extract is a natural substance commonly sold in supplement form. Often referred to as Phaselous vulgaris, white bean extract is typically marketed as a "starch blocker."
Special Precautions of White Bean Extract
Due to the lack of long-term clinical trials, little is known about the safety of taking white bean extract for an extended period. There's some concern that use of white bean extract may trigger certain minor side effects (including nausea, bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
The benefits of White Bean Extract are
- White Bean Extract for Weight Loss. Proponents claim that white bean extract can prevent alpha-amylase (an enzyme that occurs naturally in the body) from breaking down carbohydrates into glucose (sugar). By slowing up alpha-amylase activity, proponents suggest, white bean extract leaves behind less glucose for the body to turn into fat.White bean extract is widely marketed as a weight loss aid. The product is also purported to prevent obesity and reduce abdominal fat.
- Diabetes : keeps blood sugar in check, fights insulin resistance
- protects against heart disease
- enhances athletic performance
- increases energy
- ease symptoms of arthritis
- prevention of colon cancer.
Should You Use White Bean Extract?
More research needs to be conducted before white bean extract can be recommended for weight loss. If you're looking to lose weight, the National Institutes of Health suggest following a weight-management plan that pairs healthy eating with regular exercise. Keeping a food diary, getting eight hours of sleep each night, and keeping your stress in check may also help you reach and maintain a healthy weight.
If you're considering the use of white bean extract for weight loss (or any other health purpose), talk to your doctor before starting your supplement regimen.
