Phase 2 is an ingredient commonly found in carb blocker supplements. It has been studied for its effects on obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol.
Phase 2 is a brand name of carbohydrate-blocking supplements which may help to reduce the enzymatic metabolism of cellulose, starch, glycogen and other long-chain polysaccharides.
It may reduce the amount of calories absorbed from eating foods that are rich in carbohydrates. This can make it easier to achieve a calorie deficit while on a diet.
This supplement contains phaseolamin, which is the active ingredient found in white kidney bean extract supplements. White Kidney bean extract may help to lower the glycemic index of foods consumed alongside it, supporting weight reduction goals.
When taken with a proper diet and daily exercise plan, Phase 2-containing starch blockers may assist with weight loss and natural modulation of blood-glucose levels. These supplements are also used for kidney stones, bladder stones, UTIs (urinary tract infections) and lung cancer. They are also used as diuretics.
There are a number of different brands of products that contain Phase 2 as an ingredient. While some products use phaseolamin in a single-ingredient formulation, others combine it with additional natural compounds designed to support weight management.



- Helps reduce the absoprtion of carbohydrates
- Suppresses the appetite & feel full
- May promote weight loss in a healthy diet
How do Phase 2 Carb Blockers Work?
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Phase 2 Carb Blockers work by inhibiting the digestion of some of the sugars found in carbohydrate-rich foods.
They do this by blocking the effects of the digestive enzyme, Alpha Amylase, allowing for some of the carbs ingested to pass through the body without being absorbed.
Alpha amylase is a proteinaceous enzyme (EC 3.2.1.1). It hydrolyzes (breaks down) the alpha bonds that hold long-chain alpha-linked polysaccharides together.
Alpha amylase is the most prevalent digestive enzyme in humans and other mammals. It is also found in numerous fungi species.
Phase 2 carb blockers contain phaseolamin; an extract of Phaseolus vulgaris. Phaseolus vulgaris is the scientific name for various species of common beans.
Some of these include kidney, pinto, garbanzo, black and green beans. All Phaseolus vulgaris species are legumes, and all legumes contain phaseolamin.
Phaseolamin is protein-based inhibitor of alpha-amylase. Phase 2 supplements contain phaseolamin that has been extracted only from white kidney bean pods.
When compared to other members of P. vulgaris, white kidney beans contain the highest concentrations of phaseolamin.
Phase 2 white kidney bean extracts are included in various supplement formulations from several supplement manufactures. Phase 2 is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) and is not associated with any serious or lasting adverse effects.
Phase 2 Carb Blocker Clinical Studies
Multiple studies have shown that Phase 2 carb blocker supplements partially neutralize alpha amylase. This impedes the digestion and absorption of calories from starchy food sources.
In effect, some of the carbohydrates from these foods travel through the intestines undigested.
Blocking carbohydrate metabolism in this manner induces similar weight loss effects to restricting caloric intake. No calories are gained from unmetabolized foods.
One double-blind, placebo-controlled human trial reported significant weight loss within 30 days.
Those receiving Phase 2 carb blockers lost 6.45 pounds on average. In comparison, those receiving a placebo lost less than one pound on average.
In this same study, treatment group subjects lost more than 10% fat mass on average, as well as losing roughly 3% waist circumference.
In another trial, obese participants receiving Phase 2 lost an average of 3.79 pounds in 8 weeks. Twice-daily 1500 mg doses were given with meals.
In comparison, placebo group subjects lost an average of 1.65 pounds. No dietary restrictions or exercise protocols were implemented in this trial.
Other human trials with Phase 2 carb blockers suggest improvements in lipid balancing, sensitivity to insulin and utilization of glucose.
Proper use of these supplements may help to improve long-term management of diabetes mellitus symptoms, and cardiovascular health. More research is required to determine specific health benefits.
Phase 2 Carb Blocker User Reviews
There are various Phase 2 carb blocker supplements available. User reviews for the majority of these products are generally high-rated.
Some users report improvements with weight loss and appetite control. They state that they eat less and feel fuller for longer.
Some users with type 2 diabetes report better control of their blood glucose levels. Many users state the importance of taking these supplements in conjunction with daily exercise and a healthy diet.
Carbohydrate blockers should not be used as a first, or only, choice for losing weight, controlling blood sugar or any other health goal.
In order to achieve lasting weight loss results, modifications in diet and exercise are necessary.
Phase 2 Carb Blocker Dosage
Phase 2 carb blockers are taken before the first meal of the day, and again before the most carb-heavy subsequent meal of the day.
The optimal dose varies with the individual taking it. Doses between 500 mg and 1500 mg are commonly used twice daily. Some users experience benefits with doses lower than 500 mg as well.
Phase 2 is FDA GRAS in amounts as high as 10 grams daily. Supplements are available in pills, capsules, powders and beverages.
Some users sprinkle powdered Phase 2 on these foods before eating. Phase 2 is also non-GMO.
Phase 2 Carb Blocker Side Effects
Some users experience mild and temporary side effects, especially when first starting to use Phase 2 carb blockers for weight loss.
The most common side effects are flatulence, bloating and stomach discomfort. Some users also experience constipation and/or increased urination frequency.
In most cases, when used properly, these supplements cause no ill effects.
Conclusions
Using a Phase 2 carb blocker supplement may help to temporarily delay the metabolism of starchy food sources like potatoes, bread and rice.
Routine use may be beneficial for losing weight, maintaining healthy weight levels, improving cardiovascular health and combating diabetes mellitus symptoms.
Although these supplements have been used for decades without causing any serious adverse effects, you should still use them cautiously.
Pay attention to the manufacturer’s usage instructions. Be cautious using Phase 2 carb blockers with antidiabetic medications or herbal supplements with antidiabetic potentials.
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Article last updated on: April 5th, 2018 by Nootriment