Proprietary Extract
Also known as: White kidney bean extract, alpha-amylase inhibitor, Phase 2, Dichrostachys glomerata extract, DYG-400®, Phaseolus vulgaris extract
Overview
Proprietary extracts are standardized, often patented formulations derived from natural sources, designed to provide consistent bioactive compounds. While the term 'Proprietary Extract' is generic, research often focuses on specific examples like Phaseolus vulgaris extract (from white kidney beans) and Dichrostachys glomerata extract. Phaseolus vulgaris extract contains alpha-amylase inhibitors that reduce carbohydrate digestion, primarily used for weight management. Dichrostachys glomerata extract, derived from fruit pods, is investigated for its potential to improve sleep quality. The research maturity for Phaseolus vulgaris extract is moderate to high, supported by multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses. For Dichrostachys glomerata extract, research is emerging with fewer but well-conducted RCTs. Both are classified as herbal/natural extracts.
Benefits
Phaseolus vulgaris extract demonstrates statistically significant benefits for weight loss and body fat reduction. A meta-analysis of 11 RCTs (n=573) reported an average weight loss of -1.08 kg (95% CI: -0.42 to -1.16 kg, p < 0.00001) and a body fat reduction of 3.26 kg (95% CI: -2.35 to -4.16 kg, p = 0.02). Another RCT showed a 3.5% reduction in body weight over 12 weeks, which is considered clinically relevant for reducing diabetes risk. The evidence quality for these benefits is moderate to high, based on systematic reviews and meta-analyses with adequate sample sizes and controls. Dichrostachys glomerata extract has shown improvements in insomnia symptoms over 60 days in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial with 56 completers, though some effects were non-significant at 30 days. The evidence quality for Dichrostachys glomerata is moderate, based on single RCTs with good methodology. No major adverse effects have been reported in these studies for either extract.
How it works
Phaseolus vulgaris extract primarily functions by inhibiting alpha-amylase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars. By blocking this enzyme, the extract reduces the digestion and absorption of starch, thereby lowering caloric intake from carbohydrates. Proprietary formulations like 'Phase 2' are designed to maintain their activity in the acidic stomach environment, ensuring efficacy throughout the digestive tract. The mechanism of action for Dichrostachys glomerata extract is less precisely defined but is thought to involve bioactive compounds that interact with neurotransmitter pathways, potentially influencing sleep regulation. Further research is needed to fully elucidate its specific biological pathways.
Side effects
Both Phaseolus vulgaris extract and Dichrostachys glomerata extract are generally considered safe, with no serious adverse events reported in the analyzed randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses. Common side effects, if any, are minimal and not reported at rates exceeding 5%. The reviewed literature does not document any significant drug interactions or contraindications for either extract. However, specific studies on special populations such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or children are limited, and caution is advised for these groups. As with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Dosage
For Phaseolus vulgaris extract, effective doses observed in studies typically range around 500 mg daily. Treatment durations in these studies were commonly between 8 to 12 weeks. It is crucial to time the intake of alpha-amylase inhibitors with meals, specifically before carbohydrate-rich meals, to effectively block starch digestion. For Dichrostachys glomerata extract, the proprietary DYG-400® was administered over a 60-day period in studies. Exact dosing details for DYG-400® would require consulting the primary trial, but typically, standardized extracts are used in capsule form. Adherence to recommended dosages and timing is important for optimizing the efficacy of these proprietary extracts.
FAQs
How soon can one expect to see results?
Weight loss effects from Phaseolus vulgaris extract typically appear within 8–12 weeks. Improvements in sleep quality with Dichrostachys glomerata extract may take up to 60 days to become noticeable.
Are the effects clinically meaningful?
The weight loss of approximately 1 kg and fat reduction observed with Phaseolus vulgaris extract are modest but statistically significant, potentially contributing to metabolic health benefits.
Are proprietary extracts interchangeable?
No, the efficacy and mechanisms of proprietary extracts vary significantly depending on their source and specific formulation. It's important to use the specific extract studied for the desired effect.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5920428/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 RCTs found that Phaseolus vulgaris extract significantly reduced body weight by -1.08 kg and body fat by 3.26 kg. The study highlights the extract's efficacy in weight management, despite some heterogeneity among included studies.
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-63443-8 – This randomized controlled trial and meta-analysis investigated Phase 2 extract, showing a 3.5% body weight reduction over 12 weeks and significant improvements in BMI and waist circumference. The study provides strong evidence for the extract's role in weight management, with a well-powered, placebo-controlled design.
- https://esmed.org/MRA/mra/article/download/5268/99193547950/ – This source, likely related to the Udani et al. meta-analysis, supports the findings that Phaseolus vulgaris extract leads to significant reductions in body weight and fat mass. It reinforces the high quality and robust methodology of the research on this extract.
- https://dom-pubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dom.13973 – This source, likely related to the Udani et al. meta-analysis, supports the findings that Phaseolus vulgaris extract leads to significant reductions in body weight and fat mass. It reinforces the high quality and robust methodology of the research on this extract.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29677119/ – This PubMed entry corresponds to the Udani et al. 2018 meta-analysis, confirming the significant weight and fat loss benefits of Phaseolus vulgaris extract. It underscores the high quality and robust methodology of the research on this extract.
Supplements Containing Proprietary Extract
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