Phaseolus vulgaris Seed Extract
Also known as: Common bean, Kidney bean, White bean, Phaseolamin, Phase-2, Phaseolus vulgaris
Overview
Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract is derived from the common bean and contains bioactive compounds, primarily alpha-amylase inhibitors, which reduce the digestion and absorption of complex carbohydrates. It is commonly marketed as a dietary supplement for weight management and glycemic control, aiming to mitigate postprandial blood glucose spikes. The extract works by interfering with the enzymatic breakdown of starch in the digestive tract, thereby potentially reducing the caloric intake from carbohydrate-rich foods. Research on its efficacy is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses available, though results show some heterogeneity. While some studies suggest modest benefits for weight loss and body fat reduction, the overall evidence quality is mixed, with varying degrees of statistical significance and clinical relevance across different analyses.
Benefits
Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract has shown several potential benefits, primarily in the areas of weight management and metabolic health. Meta-analyses indicate a modest reduction in body weight, with an average decrease of approximately 1.7 kg compared to placebo in some studies, although heterogeneity across trials can lead to non-significant differences in other analyses. A statistically significant decrease in body fat mass, around 1.8 kg, has also been observed in some randomized controlled trials. For glycemic control, there is some evidence suggesting a reduction in postprandial glucose peaks, but results are inconsistent and highly heterogeneous. Beyond the extract, general consumption of common beans has been associated with cardiovascular benefits, including reductions in LDL cholesterol (around 19%) and a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease (approximately 11%) and coronary heart disease (around 22%). Animal studies also suggest potential improvements in intestinal barrier integrity and increased butyrate production, which may offer broader metabolic advantages.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract involves the inhibition of alpha-amylase, an enzyme crucial for the breakdown of complex carbohydrates (starch) into simpler sugars. By inhibiting this enzyme, the extract reduces the digestion and subsequent absorption of dietary carbohydrates in the small intestine. This leads to a decrease in postprandial glucose and insulin spikes. Secondary effects include potential modulation of gut microbiota and an increase in the production of short-chain fatty acids, such as butyrate. Butyrate is known to improve gut barrier function and may contribute to overall metabolic health. The effectiveness of the extract is localized to the gastrointestinal tract, as the alpha-amylase inhibitors are proteins that may be degraded if absorbed systemically.
Side effects
Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with a low incidence of reported adverse effects. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating, flatulence, and abdominal distension. These symptoms are typically attributed to the fermentation of undigested carbohydrates in the colon. No serious adverse events have been reported in high-quality randomized controlled trials. Current literature does not identify significant drug interactions or contraindications. However, data on specific populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women and children, are insufficient to draw definitive conclusions regarding safety. Individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions or those sensitive to dietary fiber may experience more pronounced side effects.
Dosage
Effective doses of Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract in clinical trials typically range from 500 mg to 3000 mg daily of a standardized extract. The duration of treatment in studies has varied, commonly ranging from 4 to 12 weeks. Optimal dosing can depend on the specific potency and formulation of the extract; higher doses may potentially increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects. For maximal efficacy in inhibiting carbohydrate digestion, the extract is usually recommended to be taken immediately before carbohydrate-rich meals. Due to the proteinaceous nature of the alpha-amylase inhibitors, systemic absorption is limited, and its effects are primarily localized within the digestive tract. There are no established upper limits, but adherence to clinically studied dosages is advisable.
FAQs
Is Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract effective for weight loss?
Evidence suggests modest benefits for weight and body fat reduction, but the effects are generally small and can vary significantly among individuals and studies.
Is Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract safe to use?
Yes, it is generally well-tolerated with few reported side effects, primarily mild gastrointestinal discomfort like bloating or gas due to undigested carbohydrates.
When should I take Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract?
It is best taken immediately before carbohydrate-rich meals to effectively inhibit the digestion and absorption of starches.
How soon can I expect to see results from taking the extract?
Clinical studies typically observe effects within 4 to 12 weeks of consistent use, though individual responses may vary.
Does Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract affect blood sugar levels?
It may help reduce postprandial (after-meal) glucose spikes by inhibiting carbohydrate digestion, but the evidence for this effect is somewhat inconsistent.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.930832/full – This animal study demonstrated that Phaseolus vulgaris seed extract improved gut barrier integrity and increased butyrate levels in a high-fat diet mouse model. The findings suggest potential metabolic benefits beyond its known enzyme inhibition, indicating a role in gut health modulation.
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/efficacy-of-phaseolus-vulgaris-as-a-weightloss-supplement-a-systematic-review-and-metaanalysis-of-randomised-clinical-trials/486488712F3A8CE3A25D97533A21DDEB – This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials found a mean weight loss difference of -1.77 kg favoring Phaseolus vulgaris extract over placebo, along with a significant reduction in body fat. However, the analysis noted high heterogeneity among studies, suggesting variability in results.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34835959/ – This meta-analysis reviewed clinical trials on common bean consumption, including extracts, and found significant reductions in LDL cholesterol and cardiovascular risk. While it showed mixed results on glycemic control and obesity, it highlighted the broader health benefits associated with bean intake.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22844674/ – This meta-analysis specifically investigated the efficacy of Phaseolus vulgaris for weight loss and found statistically non-significant weight loss differences between the extract and placebo groups. This highlights the inconsistency in clinical efficacy observed across different studies and analyses.
Supplements Containing Phaseolus vulgaris Seed Extract
Blood Sugar Health
Sanutra Wellness
GLP-1 3X Targeted Formula
Todesessis
GLP-1 Supplement for Women & Men, GLP1 Supplements with Akkermansia Probiotic, Berberine, Natural GLP-1 Support - GLP1 for Immune, GLP-1 Levels, Digestion, Gut & Overall Health, Vegan
VINNETLLOY