If you’re like millions of Americans, weight loss may be one of your top priorities.  The weight loss market in North America is booming as over 35% of Americans are obese according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  When researching natural weight loss remedies, you may have come across a supplement containing white bean extract.    People are always searching for the newest weight loss aid craze and white bean extract seems to be a popular choice at the moment.  There seems to be quite a buzz surrounding white bean extract over the last few months since it was touted on a popular television show as a natural weight loss aid, but what’s the buzz all about?

What is White Bean Extract and How Does it Work for Diets?

White bean extract is also referred to as Phaselous vulgaris and is a naturally occurring substance.  It is also thought to help prevent obesity and decrease abdominal (stomach) fat.   In additional to natural weight loss, white bean extract is believed to help keep blood sugar levels normal and help fight insulin resistance thereby helping to prevent diabetes, protect against heart disease, improve athletic performance, and decrease symptoms of arthritis. In animal studies it has also been shown to help reduce the risk of colon cancer.

How Does White Bean Extract Work for Natural Weight Loss

Supporters of this natural weight loss aid claim that it works as a carbohydrate blocker.  It prevents alpha-amylase (a naturally occurring enzyme in the body) from breaking down carbohydrates into glucose (sugar). Decreased glucose levels in the body lead to decreased fat production.  Weight loss may occur as the result of this process in the body.

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A person who is not dieting should take white bean extract with a high carbohydrate meal.  This should help to reduce body weight and body fat levels by reducing the digestion of carbohydrates commonly found in diets that are rich in breads, pastas, rice, etc.  When a person over-eats white bean extract can help to control fat gain and triglyceride (fat) levels in the blood as well as blood sugar levels over time.

There have been a limited number of studies that show that white bean extract may help with weight loss.  However, research regarding using white bean extract for any other health benefit other than weight loss is lacking.  Additionally, the long term side effects of using this natural weight loss aid are unknown as research has not yet investigated the ramifications of taking this natural weight loss aid for extended periods of time.

Further Research on Diets and Low Fat Options

Until further research is conducted to determine long term side effects of this weight loss aid, it may be best to steer clear of this hyped product.  Diets consisting of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low fat dairy products and lean meat products have been shown to provide good health benefits.  In addition to balanced diets, participating in regular physical activity is key to natural weight loss. Controlling lifestyle factors such as managing stress and getting enough sleep are also essential for a healthy lifestyle which includes maintaining a healthy weight.

If you decide to take white bean extract, talk to your doctor before starting to use it to ensure that it’s right for you.