Participants in a recent study lost an average of 6.45 lbs in only 30 days when they consumed the “starch neutralizer” Phase 2—a proprietary extract of white kidney beans. For comparison, participants on a placebo pill lost less than one pound, on average. The researchers report that the Phase 2 group also lost 10.45% of their fat body mass, 1.39% in hip circumference, 1.44% in thigh circumference and 3.44% in waist circumference. These losses were experienced without any loss of lean body mass.

“Based on this study, and a previous study on starch absorption, Phase 2 appears to be a safe, non-stimulant carbohydrate control mechanism that produces weight loss by reduction of fat mass while preserving lean body mass,” said Dennis Meiss, PhD, a nutrition researcher.

A second study at the Northridge Hospital Medical Center in Los Angeles produced similar results. In this eight-week trial, patients who took Phase 2 lost nearly a half pound per week, or 3.8 lbs over eight weeks. On average, this worked out to a loss of over 200% more weight than those on placebo. Patients on the starch neutralizer also lost 1.5 inches around their waists, on average, or 43% more than those on placebo.

“The results are encouraging and look very promising,” said lead researcher Jay Udani, MD, of the Integrative Medicine Program.

CHOLESTEROL BENEFITS, TOO?

“One of the most surprising results of the study was the impact that the starch neutralizer had on triglycerides, a form of bad cholesterol,” said Udani. There was a dramatic, 26-point drop in triglyceride levels, on average, for patients taking the starch neutralizer, while those on placebo averaged only an 8-point drop in triglyceride levels. The difference between the two groups was more than 300%. Those on the starch neutralizer also reported a 13% increase in energy, reports Udani.

HOW IT WORKS

During digestion, an enzyme called alpha amalyse breaks down carbohydrates (bread, pasta, grains, cereals) into glucose, or sugar. These sugar calories are either burned off, through exercise, or stored as fat cells for future use. In many people, stored fat cells accumulate, resulting in weight gain. Studies dating back to the 1970s show that the white kidney bean extract used in Phase 2 “neutralizes” alpha amylase before it can convert starch into glucose and then fat. Essentially, it allows the carbohydrates to pass through the system possibly with less caloric intake.

According the studies to date, the most optimum time to take Phase 2 is just before a starch-rich meal along with a glass of water. Research on Phase 2 continues.

Sources: “Summary of clinical study evaluating effectiveness of Phase 2.” Dr R Ballerini, EVIC Italia, 2001; “Phase 2 for the Treatment of Obesity.” J Udani, MD, Northridge Hospital, 2002