What is the white kidney bean extract?

Obesity is a significant health hazard, with increased risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer (breast, endometrial, and colon). Control of diet and exercise are keystones of the management of excess weight. Recently there has been a reduction in carbohydrates, particularly refined sugars, as an approach to reduce weight and the incidence of related disease risk. In most diets, carbohydrates are the most excellent source of calories. Before being absorbed by the body, carbs must be broken down into monosaccharides. This breakdown occurs due to two significant enzymes: amylase and glucosidase. When the food enters the intestine, the amylase is secreted into the small intestines by the pancreas. Amylase breaks down the carbohydrates into oligosaccharides. Then the glucosidase enzymes digest oligosaccharides to monosaccharide units. It is only the monosaccharide units that are absorbed into the body. The monosaccharides are then used as energy for the body, or stored as fat. Dietary carbohydrates that are consisted mostly of monosaccharide units are absorbed quickly and are said to have a “high glycemic index.” Carbohydrates in the polymeric form are absorbed more slowly and said to have a “low glycemic index.” Low GI foods (< 55) include vegetables and protein-enriched spaghetti. High GI foods (> 70) include white bread, rice, and baked potato. Resistant starches are those that resist digestion in the small intestine, thereby passing into the large intestine, where they act as dietary fiber. These starches are found in seeds, legumes, and whole grains. Therefore, if carbohydrates are slowed down by the inhibition of digestion-related enzymes, they are alternative to a low GI diet. Recently, scientists find a natural glycoprotein ingredient derived from the white kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) has anti-amylase activity (alpha-amylase inhibitor) in humans reduces the absorption of carbohydrates. The white kidney bean extract acts on amylase and has been clinically shown to reduce the digestion and absorption of starches up to 66%. Many clinical studies have demonstrated weight loss over time following administration of the white kidney bean extract. In summary, the white kidney bean extract has the potential to induce weight loss and reduce spikes in blood sugar caused by carbohydrates. Through its alpha-amylase inhibiting activity may also reduce the risks of developing insulin resistance, which can lead to cardiovascular disease.