Carb Blockers

There are some supplements that may help block carbs when taken with a meal.

• White Kidney Bean 10:1 Extract-   This is currently popular in the weight loss department, for it's potential ability to block carbohydrate absorption.  While I could find limited scientific data on this extract, according to Livestrong.com there was a study in 2010 that showed people that took this supplement before meals had a reduction in weight and waist circumference.  There is no current recommended dosage and this benefit hasn't been verified by more study.  It is discussed if you want to lose fat weight instead of muscle weight, it needs to be done with exercise.  The reason this extract may work is because it has a chemical that stops certain carbohydrates from breaking down, therefore you can't absorb them.  It won't work for simple sugars that can go straight into the blood stream.   If you already follow a low carb diet, you are unlikely to get any weight loss benefit from this supplement.   You could potentially get the same benefit by eating a lot of beans daily.   Find more here: http://www.livestrong.com/article/489309-is-white-kidney-bean-extract-good-for-weight-loss/
• InSea2 (copyright) Brown Seaweed Blend (Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus vesiculosus)- this blend is made by a company called innoVactiv.  It is designed to work against 2 digestive enzymes that help digest and absorb carbohydrates (specifically amylase and sucrase).  It is made from 2 different kinds of sea weed and their website says they have studied their product and submitted for publication in medical journals (here's their website-www.innovactiv.com/en/insea2.htm)    When I searched the individual seaweed portions I found a little more information.   The Ascophyllum is a common brown algea found in the Atlantic Ocean.  It has several purposes including fertilizer, food products for human and animals, and packaging material.  It has a lot of vitamins and nutrients.  Find more information here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ascophyllum.  The Fucus Vensiculous, AKA Bladder wreck, is a highly used medical supplement.  It hasn't been studied enough to show exactly how effective it is, but has been used for thyroid disorders, obesity, arthritis, joint pain, digestive disorders, heart burn, lung problems, UTI and anxiety.  It is rated as possibly safe but should be taken carefully, especially if you have problems with thyroid due to iodine concentration- there is an increased risk of thyroid cancer and goiter.   More info here- https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/726.html

In overview- these ingredients may be a helpful supplement for many people.  However, there are some people who should NEVER take this- if you have an allergy to iodine, blood thinning problems, or certain medications.  People with thyroid problems should only take these supplements under a medical professional's care.  This isn't for everyone, but may help many on their goal to weight loss and healthy living.