Do Starch Blockers Work?

With so many weight loss products on the market, it is difficult to separate fact from fiction. To answer the question, "Do starch blockers work?," let's look at the science behind starch blockers.

"Blocking" Calories from Starch

Nothing really "blocks calories," but a natural ingredient derived from the simple bean does reduce their absorption. Starch is a non-nutritive form of carbohydrate that is found in comfort foods such as pasta, bread, potatoes and rice. During the digestive process, the body converts carbohydrates into sugar. The body does this by digesting the carbohydrate molecule with an enzyme called alpha amylase. The resulting sugar is then used as energy for the body, or stored as fat.

The term "blocker," is really a misnomer, as nothing totally blocks all starches (carbs). However, the most researched ingredient in this category, Phase 2 Carb Controller™, an extract of the white bean, acts on amylase in a way that reduces, or "slows", the digestion and absorption of starches thereby reducing the caloric impact. Through this method of action, experts believe it may aid in weight control.

Does it work?

It works selectively on the starchy, white component of carbohydrates without effecting the digestion of healthy carbs such as fruit and whole grains. It may also play a role in regulating blood glucose already in normal limits, according to pilot studies. However, a word of caution: all starch blockers are not created equally. While Phase 2 has a wealth of research behind it, some "so called" starch blockers have no research basis at all. Before selecting any product, check to see if adequate research and safety studies have been conducted to make sure you’re getting the real thing

Blocking Carbohydrate Absorption and Weight Loss

Numerous studies have shown that the use of Phase 2® can indeed contribute to weight loss and healthier living. One such study, published in Alternative Medicine Review in 2004, was titled Blocking Carbohydrate Absorption and Weight Loss: A Clinical Trial Using Phase 2 Brand Proprietary Fractional White Bean Extract. This eight week study was randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled. Roughly half the participants received Phase 2 starch blockers and the other half a placebo. Results showed that after eight weeks the starch blocker group lost an average of 3.79 pounds (and average of .47 pounds per week), compared with the placebo group, which lost an average of 1.65 pounds (an average of .21 pounds per week). The 129% difference in results between the two groups is statistically significant, and similar trends were seen at two, four, and six weeks.

The International Journal of Medical Sciences Weighs In

A separate study conducted in 2007 and published in The Journal of International Medical Research led to similar results. The study was also double-blind and placebo controlled. It found that those who those who took Phase 2 starch blockers lost an average of 6.45 lbs. in 30 days, compared to those on placebo, who lost less than 1 lb. on average. Subjects on Phase 2 also lost, on average, more than 10% of body fat mass and more than 3% in waist circumference. (Celleno L, Tolaini, MV, D'Amore A, Perricone, NV, Preuss, HG, A Dietary Supplement Containing Standardized Phaseolus Vulgaris Extract Influences Body Composition of overweight Men and Women).

Do Starch Blockers Work? - Research Provides the Answer

Whether you are considering using starch blockers, vitamins, or dietary supplements, doing your research is always a good idea. Fortunately, a great deal of research on the subject has been conducted by trained scientists and doctors using the latest research methods and technologies.

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