Kidney Bean Pod Glycerite Liquid Extract
Also known as: Kidney bean extract, White kidney bean extract, Phaseolus vulgaris extract, Kidney bean pod glycerite liquid extract, Phaseolus vulgaris L.
Overview
Kidney bean pod glycerite liquid extract is derived from the pods of the kidney bean plant (Phaseolus vulgaris) using glycerin as a solvent to extract water-soluble phytochemicals. It is primarily used as a carbohydrate absorption inhibitor to aid in weight management and glycemic control, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. The extract contains bioactive compounds such as phenolics and α-amylase inhibitors, which contribute to its functional effects. Research on Phaseolus vulgaris extracts is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews available, although specific data on pod glycerite liquid extracts are limited. Evidence is mainly from Phaseolus vulgaris seed extracts, but pod-specific glycerite extracts are believed to share similar bioactive profiles. The extract is considered a botanical supplement and a plant extract.
Benefits
Kidney bean extracts, including pod glycerite, primarily offer benefits in glycemic control and weight management. They demonstrate α-amylase inhibitory activity, reducing starch digestion and lowering postprandial blood glucose levels. Studies show kidney beans have a low glycemic index (GI 32.5–53) due to resistant starch and enzyme inhibitors. Some RCTs on Phaseolus vulgaris seed extracts show modest weight loss and reduced carbohydrate absorption, though effect sizes vary. Improved insulin sensitivity and lipid profiles have been suggested but require more robust evidence. These benefits are particularly relevant for individuals with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes due to the extract's ability to modulate glycemic response. The α-amylase inhibitor activity ranges from 1.66 to 4.16 U/g dry weight in beans, contributing to significant reductions in starch digestion in vitro.
How it works
Kidney bean pod glycerite liquid extract works primarily by inhibiting the α-amylase enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down starch into glucose. This inhibition reduces the amount of glucose absorbed in the intestine, leading to a lower postprandial blood glucose response. The active compounds, including proteinaceous inhibitors and phenolic compounds, target the α-amylase enzyme in the digestive tract. The extract acts locally in the gut, and systemic absorption of the active compounds is minimal but not necessary for its efficacy. This mechanism slows carbohydrate digestion and absorption, contributing to its potential benefits for glycemic control and weight management.
Side effects
Kidney bean pod glycerite liquid extract is generally considered safe when used orally in extract form for up to 3 months. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, resulting from undigested carbohydrates fermenting in the colon. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, may include nausea or mild stomach upset. Rare side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, include allergic reactions. The extract may potentiate the hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetic drugs, necessitating blood glucose monitoring. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Caution is advised for diabetics on medication, and close monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended. Raw kidney bean pods should be avoided due to lectins that can cause gastrointestinal distress; cooking or extraction reduces lectin content.
Dosage
Studies on Phaseolus vulgaris seed extracts often use 500–1000 mg/day; specific pod glycerite doses are not well established. An optimal dosage range is suggested to be 500 mg to 1500 mg daily of a standardized extract in capsule form; glycerite liquid doses would depend on concentration. A maximum safe dose is not well defined, but doses above 3 g/day may increase gastrointestinal side effects. The extract should be taken before or with carbohydrate-containing meals to maximize α-amylase inhibition. Glycerite extracts preserve water-soluble components, but concentration standardization is necessary. Effectiveness depends on the timing relative to meals, and no specific cofactors are required.
FAQs
Is it safe to take kidney bean pod glycerite extract long-term?
Limited data suggest safety up to 3 months; longer-term safety is not well studied. Consult a healthcare professional for extended use.
Can it cause hypoglycemia?
It may enhance the effects of diabetes medications, so blood sugar monitoring is advised, especially for individuals with diabetes.
When should it be taken?
Ideally, it should be taken before meals rich in carbohydrates to maximize its α-amylase inhibition effects.
Will it cause weight loss alone?
It may assist weight management by reducing carbohydrate absorption but is not a standalone weight loss solution. Combine with diet and exercise.
Are raw kidney bean pods safe?
Raw pods contain lectins which can cause gastrointestinal distress; cooking or extraction reduces lectin content, making them safer for consumption.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.1044427/full – This in vitro and compositional study demonstrated the α-amylase inhibitory activity and low glycemic index of kidney beans. The study characterized the phenolic profile of various bean varieties, supporting their potential role in glycemic control. However, the findings are limited to in vitro analysis and lack clinical trial data on pod glycerite extract.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-689/phaseolus-vulgaris – This WebMD summary, citing clinical trials, indicates that Phaseolus vulgaris extracts are possibly safe and may reduce blood sugar levels. It also notes that raw husks may cause gastrointestinal upset and highlights potential interactions with diabetes medications. The summary primarily focuses on seed extracts, with limited specific data on pod glycerite extracts.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/12/7/1525 – This nutritional quality study suggests that kidney bean substitution can improve nutritional quality, supporting its use as a functional food. However, the study does not include direct RCTs on pod glycerite extract. The findings are relevant to the broader context of kidney bean consumption but lack specific evidence for the glycerite extract form.
- https://www.verywellfit.com/white-bean-extract-90059 – This article discusses white bean extract and its potential benefits for weight loss and blood sugar control. It mentions the mechanism of action involving alpha-amylase inhibition. The article provides a general overview but lacks specific details on kidney bean pod glycerite liquid extract.
- https://studylib.net/doc/26825197/100k-terms – This document appears to be a large collection of terms and definitions, possibly related to various fields of study. Without specific context or a clear research focus, it's difficult to extract a meaningful summary relevant to kidney bean pod glycerite liquid extract. The document's utility as a research source is limited without further information.