Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

White kidney bean extract (Phaseolus vulgaris) is primarily known for its ability to inhibit alpha-amylase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down carbohydrates into sugars in the digestive tract. By partially blocking carbohydrate digestion, it is theorized to reduce the glycemic impact of starchy foods, potentially leading to lower blood sugar spikes and, by extension, a reduction in sugar cravings. Several clinical studies have investigated the effects of white kidney bean extract on weight loss and carbohydrate absorption, with some showing modest benefits in weight management and postprandial blood glucose control. However, direct evidence supporting its use specifically for reducing sugar cravings is limited.

A few small-scale human trials and animal studies suggest that by decreasing the absorption of carbohydrates, white kidney bean extract may indirectly help control appetite and cravings for sweets, but these effects are secondary and not robustly established. Most clinical trials focus on markers like body weight, glycemic response, or carbohydrate absorption rather than subjective sugar cravings. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews generally rate the quality of evidence as low to moderate, citing study limitations and inconsistent findings. Thus, while the mechanism is plausible and some evidence exists, the direct use of white kidney bean extract for managing sugar cravings is not strongly supported by clinical research, warranting a moderate evidence rating.

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