There are few white kidney bean extract side effects known.
White kidney beans, also called cannellini beans or Phaseolus vulgaris, are members of the leguminosae (legume) family.
As a common food source, white kidney bean extract has been given GRAS (generally regarded as safe) status by the FDA. This means that it has a very low risk of negative side effects and is well tolerated by the majority of users.
A certain phytonutrient (plant chemical) in white kidney beans, called phaseolamin, is known to inhibit the digestion of starchy foods. By blocking the digestion and absorption of starchy carbohydrate foods, certain health benefits may be gained; including weight loss, weight maintenance and various others.
More than 13 clinical trials have been conducted on one specific Phaeolus vulgaris extract called Phase 2. These studies, as well as numerous others involving phaseolamin, show that there are no serious white kidney bean extract side effects.



- Reduces breakdown & absortion of carbs
- Contains phaseolamin; inhibits alpha-amylase
- Supports weight loss & appetite control
White Kidney Bean Extract for Fat Loss
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Phaseolamin is a carbohydrate blocker found naturally in White Kidney Beans.
It slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates by inhibiting the metabolizing effects of alpha-amylase.
Alpha amylase is an enzyme that is released by the salivary glands and by the pancreas. It acts to break down complex carbohydrates into oligosaccharides.
Oligosaccharides are further broken down into monosaccharides, which are then either used for energy, stored in the liver in the form of glycogen – or stored in adipocytes as triglyceride fats.
By impeding or preventing the actions of alpha-amylase, phaseolamin causes some ingested carbohydrates to pass through the small intestines undigested, or partially digested. This decrease in digestion creates the same end result as caloric restriction eating plans.
By reducing the amount of carbohydrates absorbed into the bloodstream, fewer calories enter the system. As a result, fewer starch calories are converted to glycogen and/or triglycerides. Over time, this has been shown to possibly reduce bodyweight. Studies have reported the following results:
- Reductions in current and projected fat levels;
- Decreased triglyceride counts;
- Enhanced utilization of glucose;
- Decreased risk for developing obesity and all associated health issues.
With no white kidney bean extract side effects noted, Phaseolus vulgaris is also being tested currently for its capacity to:
- Act against the development of cancer of the colon;
- Improve and/or reverse symptoms of Diabetes Type II Mellitus and reactive hypoglycemia (prediabetes);
- Improve the glycemic indices of carbohydrate-heavy foods like pasta;
- Decrease the risk factors of coronary artery disease and heart disease;
- Prevent after-meal glucose spikes and associated health issues.
How Much Weight can you Lose with White Kidney Beans?
In the “Nutritional Journal”, reviews of several Phaseolus vulgaris studies were published, reporting the following data pertaining to weight loss and subsequent weight maintenance.
In one placebo-based, double-blind trial, phaseolamin supplementation was administered for 30 days. 60 human subjects were observed and monitored.
Those who received phaseolamin lost an average of 6.45 pounds. The control group lost an average of less than one pound.
Additionally, the treatment group lost an average of 10% fat mass and experienced 3% waist size reduction. This study was conducted by Georgetown University and the results were published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences in 2007.
In another study, 1500mg of phaseolamin was given twice daily to 27 obese human subjects. After eight weeks of supplementation, the treatment group had lost an average of 3.79 pounds compared to the placebo group’s average weight loss of 1.65 pounds. No negative white kidney bean extract side effects were noted.
White Kidney Bean Side Effects
When side effects do occur after taking a white kidney bean supplement, they typically manifest as gastrointestinal discomfort. In some cases, individuals may be initially sensitive to the additional fermentation of carbohydrates in the large intestines.
The gastrointestinal side effects of phaseolamin are quite similar to those that may be expected with an increase of dietary fiber. It can cause stomach pressure, bloating, flatulence and/or diarrhea. These side effects were not severe in any reported cases. Also, the symptoms reversed after 2 to 3 days of supplementation.
White Kidney Bean supplements should not be used by diabetics without prior consultation with their doctor. Amylase inhibiting agents like phaseolamin can act to lower blood-glucose levels. They have similar effects with some prescription medications for diabetes mellitus and prediabetes.
This could cause excessively low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), which can be dangerous. If you are taking insulin or any other medications targeting diabetes symptoms, then do not begin phaseolamin supplementation without your doctor’s approval.
Also, there have not been enough large-scale studies completed to determine the safety of Phaseolus vulgaris supplementation for pregnant/nursing women. Likewise, safety cannot be guaranteed for those suffering with liver and/or kidney disease.
Consult with your physician to understand all possible white kidney bean extract side effects before using.
Article last updated on: April 14th, 2018 by Nootriment
1 Comment
For me the problem with white kidney extract is that it only blocks starch (think bread, pasta, rice, etc.) and I usually overeat on a different kind of carbs: cakes, chocolate, fruits, etc.
For “sweet” Phase 3 works better (it includes Sucrase Inhibitor L-Arabinose).
I have been purchasing Life Extensions (has Phase 2, Phase 3) but perhaps you know some other products with Phase 2 and Phase 3?