Herbal Remedies & Vitamin Guide

31 May 2007

amylase inhibitors

Also indexed as
Phaseolamin, Starch Blockers, Wheat Amylase Inhibitor, White Kidney Bean Extract
Introduction
Amylase inhibitors are also known as starch blockers because they contain substances that prevent dietary starches from being absorbed by the body. Starches are complex carbohydrates that cannot be absorbed unless they are first broken down by the digestive enzyme amylase and other, secondary, enzymes.1 2 They are claimed to be useful for weight loss, but when they were first developed years ago, research did not find them very effective for limiting carbohydrate absorption.3 4 5 6 Later, however, highly concentrated versions of amylase inhibitors did show potential for reducing carbohydrate absorption in humans.7 8 9
Where are they found?
Amylase inhibitors can be extracted from several types of plants, especially those in the
legume family. Currently available Amylase inhibitors are extracted from either white kidney bean or wheat.
Amylase inhibitors have been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
Science Ratings - Health Concerns
* - Type 1 diabetes
* - Type 2 diabetes
* - Weight loss and obesity
*** - Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
** - Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
* - For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
Who is likely to be deficient?
Amylase inhibitors are not essential nutrients and are not normally produced in the body, so no deficiency is possible.

How much is usually taken?
Depending on the potency of the amylase inhibitors , typical intake is 1,500 to 6,000 mg before meals.

Are there any side effects or interactions?
High amounts of amylase inhibitors may cause
diarrhea due to the effects of undigested starch in the colon.10 11 Diabetics taking medications to lower their blood sugar should not take amylase inhibitors without first consulting a doctor.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with amylase inhibitors.

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