Carb Blockers: Do they work?

Do these products work? There are no clinical studies performed by the mainstream medical and research communities to suggest that they work in the long-term. Studies done by those selling the product are dubious and only focus on short-term intervals.

The critical ingredient of these products is called phaselous vulgaris, an extract from the northern white kidney bean. The extract interferes with an enzyme in the body called alpha-amylase that breaks down carbohydrates into glucose. Instead of carbohydrates being broken down and turning to fat, the carbs are excreted from the body before they can enter the bloodstream.

Most products claim the tablets reduce between 30 and 45 grams of carbohydrates from entering the body. Whether these products are safe or not is an open question. There are no reliable long term studies concerning carb blockers and the supplement industry is not regulated by the FDA.

Manufacturers of carb inhibitors list side effects such as gastrointestinal distress, heartburn, excessive gas and diarrhea. The main problem with defining the severity of side-effects is what does the individual consider severe. Personally, I consider anything that alters my body’s functions in an unpleasant enough manner to preclude the use of the product. Those listed above clearly fall into that category. With the fact diet pills are notorious for being ineffective unless taken daily, one needs to ask themselves whether they can handle digestive discomfort and diarrhea on a daily basis.