Keto Carb And Sugar Blockers: Do They Work?

Carb blockers, also known as starch blockers, are dietary supplements that can help block the enzymes needed to digest certain carbs. They are usually marketed as weight loss aids and are advertised as allowing you to eat as many carbs as you want without absorbing any calories. The two main types of carb blockers are white kidney bean extract and alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs). White kidney bean extract is sold as a weight loss supplement, while AGIs are prescription medications used to treat high blood sugar in type 2 diabetics.

While carb blockers have been shown to aid in weight loss and blood sugar control, their effectiveness may be limited. At best, they appear to block only 50–65% of carb-digesting enzymes, and this does not necessarily translate to the same proportion of carbs being blocked. Additionally, the complex carbs affected by carb blockers make up only a part of the carbs in most people's diets. Added sugars in processed foods, which are usually simple carbs, are not affected by carb blockers.

Overall, while carb blockers may provide some benefits, they are not a magic solution for weight loss or blood sugar control. A healthy diet and exercise are still necessary to achieve lasting results.

What are keto carb and sugar blockers?

Carb blockers, also known as starch blockers, are dietary supplements that help prevent the absorption of carbohydrates in the digestive tract. They are often marketed as weight loss aids, as they can reduce the number of calories absorbed from carbs. Carb blockers are usually made from plant-based chemicals, specifically a group of compounds called alpha-amylase inhibitors, which are naturally found in certain foods, particularly beans. The main ingredient in many carb blockers is white kidney bean extract, also known as Phaseolus vulgaris extract.

There are two primary forms of carb blockers:

• Alpha-amylase inhibitors: These are usually sold as weight loss supplements and can be purchased at health food stores or supplement stores.
• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs): These are prescription medications used to treat type 2 diabetes by helping to control blood sugar levels.

Carb blockers work by inhibiting the enzymes that break down complex carbohydrates, or starches, into simple sugars. This prevents the body from absorbing these carbs and the calories and glucose they contain. Instead, the carbs pass through the digestive tract without being absorbed, similar to how resistant starch or fibre moves through the body.

Carb blockers have been found to be effective in aiding weight loss, especially for those on a starch-rich diet. They can also help to control blood sugar spikes after meals, making them beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, carb blockers may decrease appetite and increase feelings of fullness by affecting hormones related to hunger and fullness.

However, it is important to note that carb blockers only prevent the absorption of a portion of the carbs consumed, and their effectiveness depends on the type of carbs in one's diet. They do not prevent the absorption of simple sugars, such as those found in processed foods or sweet treats.

While generally considered safe, carb blockers may cause some side effects, such as digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. It is recommended to purchase carb blockers from reputable brands and follow the usage instructions to ensure safety.

How do they work?

Carb blockers, also known as starch blockers, are dietary supplements that prevent the breakdown of starches in the body. They inhibit the enzymes that break down complex carbohydrates, such as starch, into simple sugars that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. By blocking the action of these enzymes, carb blockers prevent the absorption of carbohydrates in the digestive tract, reducing the total caloric intake and preventing spikes in blood sugar levels.

There are two main types of carb blockers: white kidney bean extract (Phaseolus vulgaris extract) and alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs). White kidney bean extract is a natural source of alpha-amylase inhibitors, which prevent the enzyme alpha-amylase from breaking down complex carbs into simple sugars. This type of carb blocker is widely available as a weight loss supplement and has been shown to induce weight loss, especially in individuals consuming a high-carb diet.

On the other hand, AGIs are prescription medications used to treat high blood sugar in type 2 diabetics. They work by blocking the action of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which helps cut chains of sugar molecules into smaller pieces in the small intestine. While AGIs cannot be purchased as a supplement, their effects can be achieved through natural supplements containing Salacia plant extract, which is a natural source of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors.

Carb blockers have gained popularity due to their potential benefits in weight loss and blood sugar control. Several studies have shown that carb blockers can cause modest weight loss, especially in individuals consuming a high-carb diet. Additionally, carb blockers can help improve blood sugar control by preventing spikes in blood sugar levels after meals. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes.

It is important to note that carb blockers only affect complex carbohydrates and have no impact on the absorption of simple sugars, such as table sugar, fruit juice, or sweetened beverages. Additionally, their effectiveness may be limited, as they only prevent a portion of the carbs from being digested. Furthermore, the binding process of carb blockers to the enzymes can be influenced by factors such as pH, temperature, and the presence of certain ions.

Are they safe?

Carb blockers are generally considered safe for healthy adults, but only when used correctly and purchased from a reputable brand. It is also important to follow the usage instructions. It is recommended that you opt for third-party tested products and check customer reviews before purchasing.

Carb blockers are well-tolerated, with rare reports of side effects. However, they can cause minor digestive discomfort as they alter the natural process of carbohydrate digestion. This may result in gas, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. These side effects are usually short-lived and decrease over time as the body adjusts.

People with digestive issues, such as IBS or Crohn's disease, should be cautious when using carb blockers as they may worsen symptoms. Individuals with diabetes should also be cautious, as carb blockers can affect blood sugar levels. Pregnant or nursing women are advised to avoid carb blockers unless recommended by a healthcare provider.

It is important to note that carb blockers are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. While they can aid in weight loss and blood sugar control, they should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular physical exercise.

What are the side effects?

Carb blockers are generally considered safe, but they can cause some uncomfortable side effects.

As carb blockers alter the natural process of carbohydrate digestion, they might result in some minor digestive discomfort for some people. This is mainly due to more starch passing undigested into the large intestine. In the large intestine, this undigested starch undergoes fermentation by gut bacteria, a natural process that can sometimes cause minor side effects. These may include gas, bloating, flatulence, cramping, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements. These side effects are usually not severe and tend to go away over time, but they are enough for some people to stop taking carb blockers.

Additionally, people with diabetes who take insulin should talk to a doctor before taking carb blockers, as there is a chance they could cause low blood sugar if the insulin dose is not adjusted. Pregnant or nursing women should also avoid carb blockers unless recommended by a healthcare provider.

Do they help with weight loss?

Carb blockers are dietary supplements that inhibit the body's ability to digest and absorb carbohydrates. They work by inhibiting the production of enzymes that break down carbs, preventing them from being used for energy and spiking blood sugar. By reducing the total caloric intake and preventing sudden increases in blood sugar levels, carb blockers can aid in weight loss and improve blood sugar control.

The two main types of carb blockers are white kidney bean extract (Phaseolus vulgaris extract) and alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs). White kidney bean extract inhibits the enzyme amylase, which breaks down starch, while AGIs block the action of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which cuts chains of sugar molecules.

Research suggests that carb blockers can aid in weight loss, particularly for those consuming starch-rich diets. Several studies have shown that white kidney bean extract causes a modest amount of weight loss, with participants losing an average of 1.77-4 kg more than control groups. However, it's important to note that carb blockers only block a portion of carb-digesting enzymes, and their effectiveness depends on the type of carbs consumed. They are most effective for blocking complex carbohydrates, such as starch, and have minimal impact on simple carbohydrates, such as table sugar and fruit juice.

In addition to weight loss, carb blockers may offer other health benefits. They can improve blood sugar control, especially for people with type 2 diabetes, and reduce appetite by affecting hormones involved in hunger and fullness. Some studies also suggest that carb blockers can decrease triglyceride levels and increase feelings of fullness and satiety.

While carb blockers can be a useful tool for weight loss and blood sugar management, they should not be relied upon solely. The most effective way to reduce carbohydrate absorption and promote weight loss is to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Additionally, carb blockers may cause digestive discomfort and other side effects, such as bloating, gas, and changes in bowel movements. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplements, especially for those with existing health conditions.

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